Is the US negotiating with Iran or preparing to strike?

A new AP-NORC poll reveals that many American adults remain concerned about Iran's nuclear program as the U.S. and Iran resume nuclear talks in Geneva. The poll, conducted February 19-23, found that roughly half of U.S. adults are "extremely" or "very" concerned that Iran's nuclear program poses a direct threat to the United States. Despite this concern, the poll indicates that many Americans do not have high trust in President Donald Trump's judgment regarding the use of military force abroad. The U.S. seeks a deal to limit Iran’s nuclear program, while Iran maintains it isn't pursuing weapons. Trump, who previously withdrew from an earlier nuclear agreement, has threatened military action to constrain Iran's atomic program.

US and Iranian negotiators are meeting in Geneva today for critical talks regarding Iran's nuclear program. Iran maintains a deal is possible if the US adheres to three preconditions: acknowledging Iran's right to enrich uranium, allowing dilution of its enriched uranium stockpile, and refraining from controlling Iran's ballistic missile program. However, Trump's recent statements, including accusations of Iranian support for terrorism and claims about the country's nuclear ambitions, diverge from previous negotiating approaches. These discussions occur amidst ongoing tensions and differing perspectives on the path forward. Democrats have responded critically, accusing Trump of hypocrisy regarding fraud, given his administration's actions.

In February 2026, the White House reaffirmed that the June 2025 US strikes, known as Operation Midnight Hammer, "obliterated" Iran's nuclear program. This statement comes days after a senior Trump aide, Steve Witkoff, claimed Iran was only a week away from having enough material to build a nuclear bomb. White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated that the attack on Iranian nuclear facilities was an "overwhelmingly successful mission" and that its destruction was verified by Trump and the IAEA. Despite the claimed success of the strikes, US and Iranian officials are currently engaged in talks to reach a nuclear deal and prevent future conflict. The US maintains vigilance to ensure Iran does not re-establish a nuclear program.

President Trump's decision regarding potential airstrikes against Iran is pending the assessment of his special envoys, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Their judgment will reportedly influence the final decision. Meanwhile, the White House announced that Trump's upcoming State of the Union address will center on the 250th anniversary of US independence. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that the speech will also address affordability concerns. The President intends to highlight stories of American heroes embodying bravery and the spirit of 1776 during the address.

President Trump is considering airstrikes against Iran, with the final decision partly influenced by the advice of special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner regarding Iran's commitment to nuclear negotiations. Trump is weighing limited strikes to pressure Iran or a larger attack for regime change if a deal isn't reached. Iran has threatened strong retaliation to any US attack, including potentially sinking a US warship. The US is preparing for "last-ditch" negotiations with Iran on Thursday. Additionally, a 15% tariff announced by Trump has not yet been implemented but could be enacted at any time.

Iran's deputy foreign minister vowed that Iran will do "whatever it takes" to reach a nuclear deal with the U.S. ahead of planned talks in Geneva on Thursday. The Iranian delegation, along with U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, will meet to discuss the nuclear program. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that President Trump prefers diplomacy with Iran but is prepared to use military force if necessary. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi affirmed Iran's commitment to peaceful nuclear technology and denied any intention to develop nuclear weapons. He expressed optimism for a fair deal that addresses mutual concerns, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing diplomacy.

Indonesia has accepted the deputy commander position in the U.S.-led International Stabilisation Force (ISF) for Gaza, committing up to 8,000 troops to the region. The ISF, totaling approximately 20,000 personnel, aims to stabilize Gaza with Indonesia focusing on civilian protection and humanitarian aid. Other contributing nations include Morocco, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, and Albania, with Egypt and Jordan training a new Palestinian police force. While Indonesia emphasizes its non-combat role, analysts suggest the ISF's broader objectives, such as disarming Palestinian armed groups like Hamas, could pose political challenges to Indonesia's pledge. Advanced Indonesian units are expected to deploy within two months to assess conditions and security risks.

Students across several universities in Iran gathered to protest again, despite a heavy security presence and plainclothes officers stationed outside university gates. The protests began on Saturday, marking the start of the new academic term, and have spread to universities across Tehran and the northeastern city of Mashhad. Protesting students are boycotting classes due to the deaths of thousands of protesters in January's crackdown, with at least 7,000 confirmed killed and another 11,700 under investigation. The protests are fueled by the regime's labeling of dissenters as foreign-backed agents, which students claim is a tactic to silence them. Students are demanding freedom and peace for future generations, willing to risk their lives to achieve this goal. Protests have been ongoing since smaller demonstrations began weeks ago among medical students.

Anti-government protests escalated across Iran on Sunday, with clashes reported at major universities and in the streets of Tehran. Students gathered in Tehran and Mashhad to commemorate those killed in January's anti-government demonstrations, leading to violence. Reports indicate tear gas and shots were fired by security forces in response to protests where demonstrators chanted anti-government slogans and criticized Iranian leaders. Some students reportedly defaced images of Supreme Leader Khamenei. State TV claimed that some individuals disguised as students attacked pro-government protesters. Opposition groups described a forceful response by authorities, including the use of tear gas against demonstrators.

The US and Iran are expected to hold nuclear talks in Geneva this week, signaling a potential diplomatic solution amid heightened tensions. Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi indicated a possibility of a "fast deal" while also warning of self-defense if attacked. Simultaneously, the Iranian government faces renewed internal pressure as student demonstrations reignited at universities in Tehran and Mashhad, commemorating victims of past protests. The government's handling of previous unrest, including disputed death tolls and refusal of a UN-led inquiry, faces scrutiny. Despite initial vocal support for protesters, the US focus has shifted to Iran's nuclear program, with a significant military presence building in the region.

US President Trump is questioning why Iran has not yielded to pressure amid increased US military presence in the Middle East. Special envoy Steve Witkoff stated Trump is curious why Iran hasn't approached the US to negotiate its nuclear program, despite warnings of potential military action if a deal isn't reached. This comes after indirect talks between US and Iranian officials in Switzerland aimed at curbing Iran's nuclear program. Trump indicated a decision on a deal or military action could come within days. Meanwhile, anti-government protests have occurred at Iranian universities, facing clashes with government supporters.

Student-led anti-government protests erupted for a second day at universities in Tehran and Mashhad, Iran, despite a recent deadly crackdown on dissent. The demonstrations, occurring at at least seven university campuses, mark some of the first major protests since January when thousands were killed and tens of thousands arrested. Students are mourning those killed in earlier protests and calling for an end to the rule of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The protests coincide with internal discontent and rising tensions with the U.S. While the government has not officially acknowledged the protests, a University of Tehran official cautioned students against violence.

Following deadly nationwide protests in January, Iranian universities reopened, prompting renewed demonstrations by students in Tehran and other cities on Sunday and Monday. Thousands of students protested at universities like the University of Tehran against the government, while clashes erupted between them and pro-government students affiliated with the IRGC's Basij organization. Heavy security force presence was reported both inside and outside the universities, with reports of violent crackdowns. Protests also occurred in Mashhad, and celebrations took place in Abdanan following the release of a teacher arrested during protests last week. The demonstrations come after tens of thousands, including students, were arrested during and after the January protests.

Iranian students staged large anti-government protests at several universities across the country on Saturday, marking the first rallies of this scale since a deadly crackdown last month. Demonstrations occurred at Sharif University of Technology, Shahid Beheshti University, and Amir Kabir University of Technology in Tehran, as well as in Mashhad. Protesters chanted anti-government slogans, including "death to the dictator," referring to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Scuffles broke out between protesters and pro-government supporters at Sharif University. The protests follow previous demonstrations sparked by economic grievances and coincide with ongoing international discussions regarding Iran's nuclear program.

On February 21, 2026, Iranian students resumed anti-government protests as universities reopened for the new semester. Demonstrations occurred at multiple universities, including Amirkabir University and Sharif University in Tehran, as well as universities in Mashhad and Shahid Beheshti. Students, some wearing black to mourn those killed in prior protests, chanted slogans against the government and Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The protests follow a government crackdown on a previous nationwide movement that was fueled, in part, by student activism. Reports vary, but some sources indicate clashes between opposing groups and arrests by police.

Amid escalating tensions, Iran is preparing a nuclear counterproposal following recent talks with the US. Foreign Minister Araqchi expects a draft within days, while President Trump stated he is considering limited military strikes to pressure Iran into a deal within 10-15 days. US military planning has reportedly reached an advanced stage, with options including targeting individuals or pursuing leadership change. Araqchi acknowledged an understanding on "guiding principles" but cautioned that a deal is not imminent. Trump cited Iran's crackdown on protests, claiming 32,000 deaths, and asserted his threats deterred mass hangings, though these figures are unverified.

In February 2026, US President Donald Trump is set to chair the first meeting of the "Board of Peace" in Washington D.C. The board, comprised of representatives from around two dozen countries, will discuss the ceasefire in Gaza and fundraising efforts for its reconstruction. Trump envisions a broader scope for the board's work, extending "far beyond" Gaza. While many countries have joined, several key US allies have not signed on. The meeting aims to address the situation in Gaza and potentially expand its focus to other global issues. The composition of the board and its objectives are expected to have implications for Gaza and international relations.

US President Donald Trump is considering a limited military strike on Iran amid ongoing tensions over its nuclear program. This follows a naval build-up in the Middle East, intended to pressure Iran into a deal to limit its nuclear ambitions. Trump previously issued a deadline for Tehran to agree to a deal, which he later extended. Meanwhile, Iran's foreign minister stated that a draft proposal for an agreement with Washington would be ready within days, following negotiations in Geneva. The draft would then be submitted to Trump's Middle East negotiator for review.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated on February 20, 2026, that a diplomatic solution with the US is achievable regarding Iran's nuclear program, despite ongoing tensions. Speaking to US media, Araghchi criticized the US military build-up in the Middle East as "unnecessary and unhelpful," arguing it complicates reaching a fair agreement. He emphasized that Iran is prepared for peace and responds to respect, noting previous pressure tactics from the US have failed. These statements come amidst ongoing negotiations between the US and Iran, described as positive by both sides, even as the US continues to deploy military assets to the region. President Trump acknowledged considering limited strikes against Iran, while Araghchi warned against such actions.

US President Donald Trump stated he is considering a limited military strike on Iran to pressure its leaders into a deal to curb their nuclear program. This statement follows increased US military presence in the region, including the deployment of warships and fighter jets. The US and European allies suspect Iran is developing nuclear weapons, a claim Iran denies. US and Iranian officials have been meeting in Switzerland, with Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stating a draft agreement proposal will be presented to the US in the coming days. Trump indicated a decision on a deal or military action would be made within approximately ten days.

Amidst ongoing nuclear talks between the United States and Iran, President Trump stated on Friday that he is considering limited military strikes against Iran. This comes as Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi indicated that a proposed deal could be ready within days. Araghchi stated that serious negotiations on the text could begin within a week, potentially leading to a conclusion. Tensions between the two countries have increased as the Trump administration seeks concessions from Iran and has expanded its military presence in the Middle East. Both countries have expressed readiness for war if diplomatic efforts regarding Iran's nuclear program fail.

In 2026, FIFA and the Board of Peace, established under US President Donald Trump, partnered to attract investment for sustainable development in conflict-affected regions, starting with Gaza. FIFA aims to raise $75 million for football-related projects in Gaza, including building mini-pitches, full-size pitches, a FIFA academy, and a new national stadium. The initiative seeks to rebuild the territory after Hamas disarms and Israeli troops withdraw. The program will also emphasize job creation, youth participation, organized leagues for boys and girls, community engagement and the stimulation of local commercial activities. Challenges remain regarding Hamas' disarmament, troop withdrawal, the size of the reconstruction fund, and humanitarian aid delivery.

Satellite images reveal Iran has been repairing and fortifying key military and nuclear sites, some reportedly damaged in prior attacks. These activities include constructing a concrete shield over a new facility at a sensitive military site, burying tunnel entrances at a nuclear site, and reinforcing missile bases. The developments occur amid heightened tensions between Iran, the United States, and Israel. The US is currently seeking a deal with Iran regarding its nuclear program while simultaneously threatening military action if negotiations fail. The US has also increased its military presence in the Middle East, with 13 warships currently stationed there.

Satellite images from February 2026 reveal Iran is fortifying its Parchin military complex, located southeast of Tehran, with a concrete shield and soil covering. This development follows reports of an Israeli bombing at the site in October 2024. The images also show Iran burying tunnel entrances at a nuclear site bombed by the US during Israel's 12-day war with Iran last year, fortifying other tunnel entrances, and repairing missile bases damaged in the conflict. These actions occur amid heightened tensions with the US and a growing US military presence in the region. Poland's Prime Minister has urged Polish citizens to leave Iran due to the risk of escalation. The Parchin complex has been suspected of past nuclear weapons-related testing, allegations Iran denies.

Poland's Prime Minister Donald Tusk urged Polish citizens in Iran to evacuate immediately on Thursday, citing a "very real" possibility of conflict. Tusk warned that evacuation may become impossible within hours due to escalating tensions. The warning comes as the U.S. is bolstering its military presence in the Middle East, with the USS Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group moving to the region to join the USS Abraham Lincoln. These deployments occur amidst rising concerns over Iran's nuclear program. The U.S. Central Command recently showcased F/A-18 Super Hornets operating from the USS Abraham Lincoln in the Arabian Sea.

In February 2026, President Trump's special envoys, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, are engaged in negotiations to resolve conflicts involving Iran, Ukraine, and Gaza. Witkoff and Kushner held talks in Geneva regarding the Iranian nuclear program and the war in Ukraine. They are scheduled to meet in Washington for the first meeting of Trump's "Board of Peace" to address the conflict in Gaza and the Israeli-Palestinian issue. Despite the envoys' efforts, concrete progress in resolving these complex situations remains limited. Talks with Iran, mediated by Oman, have yielded a vague agreement on "guiding principles," but details are unclear amidst a U.S. military buildup.

World leaders are gathering in Washington D.C. for the inaugural meeting of Donald Trump's Board of Peace, an initiative aimed at ending the war in Gaza. Representatives from over 45 countries are expected, though major European allies like the UK, Germany, and France declined invitations due to concerns about the board's operations and potential conflict with the UN. The meeting follows a US-backed ceasefire plan approved by the UN Security Council, which includes a two-year mandate for the Board to oversee Gaza's demilitarization and reconstruction. Key unresolved issues include Hamas disarmament, Israeli troop withdrawal, and humanitarian aid. While board members have pledged $5 billion for reconstruction, this is a fraction of the estimated $70 billion needed. The summit occurs amid a fragile ceasefire and heightened tensions in the Middle East, including joint Russian-Iranian navy drills in the Gulf of Oman.

In February 2026, Donald Trump announced at the first Board of Peace meeting that nine member nations pledged $7 billion for Gaza reconstruction. The US will contribute an additional $10 billion to the Board of Peace. The funds aim to foster stability in the region following Israel's war on Gaza. Five countries—Indonesia, Morocco, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, and Albania—committed troops to an international stabilization force led by a US general, with an Indonesian deputy, to be deployed in Gaza, starting in Rafah. Egypt and Jordan will train police officers. The force aims to train a new police force of 12,000 and have 20,000 troops.

President Trump launched the "Board of Peace" on Thursday in Washington, D.C., pledging $10 billion to the initiative. The institution, focused initially on rebuilding Gaza, was unveiled amidst rising tensions with Iran, including the deployment of US military assets to the region. Trump will retain veto power and leadership of the board, even after leaving office. Countries seeking permanent membership must contribute $1 billion. The initiative has faced criticism for its lack of transparency, and the source and allocation of the US funding remain unclear. The launch occurred at a renamed former US Institute of Peace building.

In Gaza, Palestinians have expressed skepticism regarding the inaugural meeting of the "Board of Peace," held on February 19, 2026. They view the board, initiated by Donald Trump, as a potential mechanism to further Israel's occupation of Palestinian territory. The concerns stem from a belief that the board will serve as "another gateway to the occupation of Palestine." The reaction highlights existing tensions and distrust surrounding international efforts aimed at resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Palestinians fear the board's actions will exacerbate the existing situation in Gaza.

Despite heavy losses during the recent conflict with Israel, Hamas is reportedly reasserting control in Gaza. Four months after the ceasefire, the organization is regaining authority over security, tax collection, and government services in over 90% of the areas where it is present. Gazans report the return of Hamas police and security agencies, controlling crime and managing civic duties like issuing IDs and overseeing healthcare. Hamas is also re-establishing control over the judiciary and courts. Market stallholders describe renewed enforcement of fees and taxes, adding to the economic strain in a region already devastated by war and grappling with shortages of basic necessities. This resurgence raises questions about Hamas's long-term strategy and willingness to disarm, as required by a proposed peace plan.

The UN Security Council moved its meeting on Gaza and the West Bank to Wednesday to avoid conflicting with President Trump's inaugural Board of Peace meeting on Thursday. Several foreign ministers are expected to attend the UN session in New York, which was requested by Arab and Islamic nations to address the fragile Gaza ceasefire and Israeli settlement expansion. Trump announced that his Board of Peace member states pledged over $5 billion for Gaza humanitarian aid and reconstruction, along with personnel for a stabilization force, contingent on Hamas demilitarization. Israel joined the Board of Peace on February 11 after initial concerns about the involvement of Qatar and Turkey.

Donald Trump's Board of Peace is scheduled to convene in Washington D.C. for its inaugural meeting. The board, a key foreign policy initiative, aims to address global conflicts, with an initial focus on solidifying the fragile ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. Trump envisions the board playing a significant role, potentially governing and rebuilding Gaza and even challenging the UN Security Council's conflict resolution role. However, the board faces challenges in Gaza, including ongoing violence, lack of disarmament by Hamas, and stalled progress for a Palestinian governing committee. Experts emphasize the need for tangible improvements on the ground to maintain the board's credibility. Over two dozen nations, including Israel, have joined as founding members.

The UN Security Council met Wednesday in New York to discuss the situation in the Middle East, specifically Gaza and the West Bank. International diplomats, including Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister, condemned Israel's alleged ceasefire violations in Gaza and its efforts to expand control over the occupied West Bank. Concerns were raised about restrictions on humanitarian aid to Gaza and the legality of Israel's actions in the West Bank under international law. The meeting was rescheduled to avoid a conflict with President Trump's "Board of Peace" meeting in Washington, DC, raising concerns about potential conflicting agendas between the UN and the US. Many Arab and Muslim-majority countries requested the UNSC meeting to address the Gaza situation.

In February 2026, US President Donald Trump's "Board of Peace" is scheduled to meet in Washington D.C. The board has pledged five billion dollars for the rebuilding of Gaza and the deployment of thousands of foreign troops. The stated purpose of these initiatives is to promote peace. However, critics argue that the proposed plan is insufficient to address the needs of the region. Al Jazeera's Nour Hegazy is reporting on the upcoming meeting and the criticisms surrounding the board's proposals. The report examines the disparity between the board's rhetoric and the perceived reality of its plan.

In February 2026, Hamas urged President Trump's "Board of Peace" to halt Israel's alleged violations of the Gaza deal brokered in October 2025. This plea comes as the board prepares for its first formal meeting in Washington, D.C., while Palestinians await the full implementation of the peace agreement's second phase. Hamas claims that Israel's actions, including killings, displacement, and a siege, continue despite the truce. According to the Health Ministry, over 600 Palestinians have been killed and 1,600 wounded in Gaza since the agreement began. Hamas also called for the board to facilitate the entry of technocrats to govern and rebuild Gaza, lift the siege, and open border crossings, warning against Israel using the council as a cover for continued aggression. Recent reports indicate Israeli shelling and gunfire in Gaza City and Khan Younis.

Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) ceased operations at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, Gaza, citing the presence of armed men, intimidation, arbitrary arrests, and suspected weapons movement. MSF stated these incidents posed security threats to their teams and patients. The IDF said it possesses intelligence indicating Hamas used Nasser Hospital as a headquarters. HonestReporting criticized MSF for not identifying the gunmen as Hamas. The White House stated they could not confirm MSF's claims, but emphasized Hamas must disarm. MSF had been operating at Nasser Hospital since before the conflict escalated in October 2023.

Ahead of nuclear talks in Geneva, the article profiles Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and US envoy Steve Witkoff, highlighting their contrasting backgrounds and negotiation styles. Araghchi, a seasoned diplomat with a PhD and a book on negotiation, is portrayed as patient and strategic, reflecting Iran's "market style" of bargaining. Witkoff, a property developer, is seen as operating under a more volatile approach dictated by President Trump. The article suggests that successful negotiations require both sides to make concessions and understand each other's approaches, particularly Iran's emphasis on persistence and repeated demands. Araghchi's book emphasizes national cohesion and military strength as key factors in successful negotiation.

On February 16, 2026, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director-General Rafael Grossi in Geneva, Switzerland. The meeting took place ahead of a second round of talks with the United States. The purpose of the meeting was likely to discuss Iran's nuclear program and cooperation with the IAEA. This meeting follows previous discussions between Araghchi and Grossi, including one in Cairo in September 2025. The talks are part of ongoing efforts to address concerns about Iran's nuclear activities.

Since dawn on February 15, 2026, Israeli forces have killed at least nine Palestinians in attacks across Gaza, according to medical sources cited by Al Jazeera. These deaths raise the total number of Palestinians killed in Gaza to 591 since the declared ceasefire on October 10. According to Gaza's Government Media Office, Israel has violated the US-brokered ceasefire at least 1,620 times. The renewed violence follows ongoing tensions and previous breaches of the agreement. The reasons behind the specific attacks and the identities of those killed were not detailed in the provided information.

On Sunday, Israeli air strikes in the Gaza Strip killed at least 11 Palestinians, according to Palestinian officials. The Israeli military stated the strikes were a response to ceasefire violations by Hamas. Strikes hit a tent encampment for displaced families, Khan Younis, and the Tel Al-Hawa neighborhood of Gaza City. Hamas accused Israel of a "massacre" against displaced Palestinians, while an Israeli military official described the strikes as "precise" and in line with international law, citing repeated ceasefire violations by Hamas. Both sides have blamed each other for violating the October ceasefire agreement, which is a key part of President Trump's plan to end the Gaza war.

At least 12 Palestinians were killed and several others injured in Israeli airstrikes across the Gaza Strip on Sunday. The Israeli military stated the strikes were in response to ceasefire violations by Hamas. Palestinian sources reported fatalities in Jabaliya, Khan Younis, Gaza City, and Beit Lahia, including those sheltering in a tent for displaced people. Hamas accused Israel of a "massacre" and violating the ceasefire agreement. Israel claimed Hamas violated the truce by armed individuals near Israeli troops after exiting underground infrastructure. The violence occurred despite a US-brokered truce that began last month, with both sides accusing the other of violations.

In January 2026, President Donald Trump announced that his newly formed Board of Peace would unveil $5 billion in pledges for the reconstruction of Gaza at its inaugural meeting. The announcement was made during the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. Trump stated that the board would also commit thousands of personnel to international stability efforts. The Board of Peace charter was signed by President Trump at the event. The initiative aims to address the rebuilding needs of Gaza, which has been impacted by conflict.

In February 2026, UpFront interviewed Gaza author and policy analyst Jehad Abusalim about the situation in Gaza following the ceasefire. Despite the ceasefire, Israeli strikes continue, resulting in Palestinian casualties. The discussion centered on the United States President Donald Trump's "Board of Peace" and its Gaza reconstruction plans. A key concern is the lack of Palestinian representation in the Board's leadership, raising questions about whether the plans will address the needs and perspectives of Gazans. Abusalim discussed the ongoing strikes, Trump's plans, and the future prospects for the territory, emphasizing the importance of Palestinian voices in shaping Gaza's future.