U.S. President Donald Trump stated on February 20, 2026, that he is considering a limited military strike against Iran to pressure Tehran into accepting a nuclear agreement. Speaking at the White House, Trump confirmed, "I guess I can say I am considering that," following a Wall Street Journal report detailing plans for targeted strikes on Iranian military or government sites.
The administration has set a 10- to 15-day deadline for Iran to comply with U.S. demands, warning of a broader campaign against government facilities if negotiations stall. "We're going to make a deal or get a deal one way or the other," Trump emphasized, reiterating his view that regime change in Iran would be "the best thing that could happen."
Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi responded on Friday, announcing that Tehran’s draft nuclear deal proposal will be finalized within three days. While expressing confidence in reaching a "fair and equitable" agreement, Araghchi criticized the U.S. military buildup in the region as "unnecessary," asserting that Iran is "prepared for diplomacy as much as war."
White House officials have reportedly not finalized a decision, with multiple U.S. media outlets noting ongoing deliberations. The developments come amid heightened global scrutiny of cross-strait diplomatic efforts and their implications for Middle East stability.
