AI safety discussions and high-stakes nuclear talks dominated the global news cycle on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, with developments in India, Geneva, and the Strait of Hormuz. The AI Impact Summit in Delhi faced early confusion, while Iran and the United States made progress in nuclear negotiations, even as military drills created further tension.
The AI Impact Summit in India, a gathering of tech leaders, politicians, scientists, and campaigners, kicked off with uncertainty, according to BBC Technology. Reports initially suggested Microsoft founder Bill Gates would not be attending, but the Gates Foundation later confirmed his keynote appearance. The summit aimed to guide the AI revolution, but was potentially overshadowed by controversy.
Meanwhile, in Geneva, Iran and the United States reached an understanding on "guiding principles" after fresh talks regarding Tehran's nuclear capabilities, as reported by Sky News. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqhchi stated that while a final agreement might not be imminent, "the path has started." However, tensions remained high as Iran simultaneously closed the Strait of Hormuz for live-fire drills, according to Euronews. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) initiated the exercises in the Strait of Hormuz, the Persian Gulf, and the Gulf of Oman, crucial international shipping routes.
The developments in Geneva followed a series of negotiations aimed at resolving the long-running dispute over Iran's nuclear program. The talks, convened in Geneva, Switzerland, involved US and Iranian officials.
In other news, China showcased its latest technology during the Lunar New Year celebrations, with humanoid robots taking center stage, as reported by Al Jazeera. The robots performed dances and martial arts during the annual CCTV Spring Festival gala.
Also, Al Jazeera reported on the ongoing issues in the Chagos Islands, where the UK-Mauritius agreement on sovereignty was described as "an act of great stupidity" by President Donald Trump. The report highlighted the "sordid story" of US and UK involvement in alleged crimes against humanity against the islands' Indigenous people.
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