The Dutch Foreign Ministry summoned Iran's ambassador to the Netherlands on Tuesday to protest against the seizure of a Dutch diplomat's luggage at Tehran airport.
"Iran caused a diplomatic incident on January 28, 2026, by forcing a Dutch diplomat to hand over his diplomatic luggage at the airport of Tehran," the ministry said in a statement. "This is unacceptable."
The ministry said it had repeatedly asked Iran to immediately release the seized goods, but gave no further details. It said it had summoned the ambassador after Iran disclosed footage of the incident online.
Nuclear deal 'within reach,' Iranian FM Araghchi claims
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said a nuclear agreement with the United States could be possible if diplomacy is prioritised, ahead of resumed talks in Geneva later this week, Iranian state media reported.
Araghchi wrote on X that there is a “historic opportunity” to address mutual concerns and interests, but stressed Tehran will hold firm on its redlines, including maintaining its right to peaceful nuclear technology and ruling out development of a weapon.
The comments come as officials from both sides prepare to restart negotiations, with Iran’s deputy foreign minister saying Tehran is ready to take necessary steps to reach a deal.
Iran stalls for an interim deal
The US could carry out targeted air strikes against Iran if Tehran fails to negotiate earnestly in nuclear talks, a defence expert told The Jerusalem Post, amid ongoing efforts to reach an interim deal that would preserve Iran’s ballistic missile program while easing sanctions.
Former British intelligence officer Dr. Lynette Nusbacher said the US has positioned forces to pressure Tehran but still prefers diplomacy.
Nusbacher described the negotiations as a “game of chicken,” warning that Washington might launch limited strikes on nuclear sites, IRGC targets, and senior officials’ facilities if it believes Tehran isn’t bargaining in good faith. She said any military action would be calibrated to avoid a wider conflict while maintaining leverage in talks.