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Trump Gives Iran 10‑15 Days, Deploys Second Carrier as Iran Threatens U.S. Bases

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  • Iranians walk past an anti-US billboard in Tehran, with the slogan: "If you sow the wind, you will reap the whirlwind"
    Iranians walk past an anti-US billboard in Tehran, with the slogan: "If you sow the wind, you will reap the whirlwind"
    Image: BBC
    Iranians walk past an anti-US billboard in Tehran, with the slogan: "If you sow the wind, you will reap the whirlwind" (Reuters) Source Full size
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  • Trump told the Board of Peace, Trump said that talks with Iran have been 'very good' but historically difficult.
    Trump told the Board of Peace, Trump said that talks with Iran have been 'very good' but historically difficult.
    Image: BBC
    Trump told the Board of Peace, Trump said that talks with Iran have been 'very good' but historically difficult. (Getty Images) Source Full size
  • Iran holds more drills and US carrier nears Mideast in latest preparations for possible war
    Iran holds more drills and US carrier nears Mideast in latest preparations for possible war
    Image: King5 (Seattle, WA)
    Iran holds more drills and US carrier nears Mideast in latest preparations for possible war (Credit: via ap) Source Full size
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  • In this photo provided by the U.S. Navy, the USS Gerald R. Ford embarked on the first of its sea trials to test various state-of-the-art systems on its own power for the first time, April 8, 2017, from Newport News, Va.
    In this photo provided by the U.S. Navy, the USS Gerald R. Ford embarked on the first of its sea trials to test various state-of-the-art systems on its own power for the first time, April 8, 2017, from Newport News, Va.
    Image: Newsweek
    In this photo provided by the U.S. Navy, the USS Gerald R. Ford embarked on the first of its sea trials to test various state-of-the-art systems on its own power for the first time, April 8, 2017, from Newport News, Va. Source Full size
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  • This image provided Thursday Feb. 19, 2026 by the Iranian military and dated Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2025, shows navy ships conducting operations during a join drill by Iranian and Russian forces in the Indian Ocean. (Masoud Nazari Mehrabi/Iranian Army via AP)
    This image provided Thursday Feb. 19, 2026 by the Iranian military and dated Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2025, shows navy ships conducting operations during a join drill by Iranian and Russian forces in the Indian Ocean. (Masoud Nazari Mehrabi/Iranian Army via AP)
    Image: Newsweek
    This image provided Thursday Feb. 19, 2026 by the Iranian military and dated Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2025, shows navy ships conducting operations during a join drill by Iranian and Russian forces in the Indian Ocean. (Masoud Nazari Mehrabi/Iranian Army via AP) Source Full size
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  • Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and its strike group sail in formation in the Arabian Sea while aircraft fly overhead, on February 6, 2026.
    Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and its strike group sail in formation in the Arabian Sea while aircraft fly overhead, on February 6, 2026.
    Image: Newsweek
    Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and its strike group sail in formation in the Arabian Sea while aircraft fly overhead, on February 6, 2026. Source Full size
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  • Trump told the Board of Peace, Trump said that talks with Iran have been 'very good' but historically difficult.
    Trump told the Board of Peace, Trump said that talks with Iran have been 'very good' but historically difficult.
    Image: BBC
    Trump told the Board of Peace, Trump said that talks with Iran have been 'very good' but historically difficult. (Getty Images) Source Full size
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    BBC Source Full size
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  • In February the US military released an image of the Lincoln carrier strike group in the Arabian Sea
    In February the US military released an image of the Lincoln carrier strike group in the Arabian Sea
    Image: BBC
    In February the US military released an image of the Lincoln carrier strike group in the Arabian Sea (Reuters) Source Full size
  • The world's largest aircraft carrier, the US Navy nuclear-powered USS Gerald R Ford has been heading east to support potential operations
    The world's largest aircraft carrier, the US Navy nuclear-powered USS Gerald R Ford has been heading east to support potential operations
    Image: BBC
    The world's largest aircraft carrier, the US Navy nuclear-powered USS Gerald R Ford has been heading east to support potential operations (US Navy / Reuters) Source Full size
  • The USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier (bottom) and Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Frank E Petersen Jr during an exercise in the Arabian Sea on 6 February
    The USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier (bottom) and Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Frank E Petersen Jr during an exercise in the Arabian Sea on 6 February
    Image: BBC
    The USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier (bottom) and Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Frank E Petersen Jr during an exercise in the Arabian Sea on 6 February (US Navy / Reuters) Source Full size
  • Iranian daily newspaper Vatan-e Emrooz's 19 February edition, with the headline "Sea surprises"
    Iranian daily newspaper Vatan-e Emrooz's 19 February edition, with the headline "Sea surprises"
    Image: BBC
    Iranian daily newspaper Vatan-e Emrooz's 19 February edition, with the headline "Sea surprises" (EPA) Source Full size
  • Strikes on the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and other security institutions could weaken the apparatus that recently reasserted control after protests
    Strikes on the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and other security institutions could weaken the apparatus that recently reasserted control after protests
    Image: BBC
    Strikes on the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and other security institutions could weaken the apparatus that recently reasserted control after protests (NurPhoto via Getty Images) Source Full size
  • Human rights groups say during anti-government unrest at the end of 2025 and start of 2026, thousands of people were killed in security crackdowns
    Human rights groups say during anti-government unrest at the end of 2025 and start of 2026, thousands of people were killed in security crackdowns
    Image: BBC
    Human rights groups say during anti-government unrest at the end of 2025 and start of 2026, thousands of people were killed in security crackdowns (Reuters) Source Full size
  • Airstrike craters covered with dirt at Iran's Natanz enrichment facility in June 2025 following US airstrikes
    Airstrike craters covered with dirt at Iran's Natanz enrichment facility in June 2025 following US airstrikes
    Image: BBC
    Airstrike craters covered with dirt at Iran's Natanz enrichment facility in June 2025 following US airstrikes (Reuters) Source Full size
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    Image: BBC
    Getty Images Source Full size
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  • This image provided Thursday Feb. 19, 2026 by the Iranian military and dated Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2025, shows navy ships conducting operations during a join drill by Iranian and Russian forces in the Indian Ocean. (Masoud Nazari Mehrabi/Iranian Army via AP)
    This image provided Thursday Feb. 19, 2026 by the Iranian military and dated Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2025, shows navy ships conducting operations during a join drill by Iranian and Russian forces in the Indian Ocean. (Masoud Nazari Mehrabi/Iranian Army via AP)
    Image: Newsweek
    This image provided Thursday Feb. 19, 2026 by the Iranian military and dated Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2025, shows navy ships conducting operations during a join drill by Iranian and Russian forces in the Indian Ocean. (Masoud Nazari Mehrabi/Iranian Army via AP) Source Full size
  • Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and its strike group sail in formation in the Arabian Sea while aircraft fly overhead, on February 6, 2026.
    Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and its strike group sail in formation in the Arabian Sea while aircraft fly overhead, on February 6, 2026.
    Image: Newsweek
    Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and its strike group sail in formation in the Arabian Sea while aircraft fly overhead, on February 6, 2026. Source Full size
  • In this photo provided by the U.S. Navy, the USS Gerald R. Ford embarked on the first of its sea trials to test various state-of-the-art systems on its own power for the first time, April 8, 2017, from Newport News, Va.
    In this photo provided by the U.S. Navy, the USS Gerald R. Ford embarked on the first of its sea trials to test various state-of-the-art systems on its own power for the first time, April 8, 2017, from Newport News, Va.
    Image: Newsweek
    In this photo provided by the U.S. Navy, the USS Gerald R. Ford embarked on the first of its sea trials to test various state-of-the-art systems on its own power for the first time, April 8, 2017, from Newport News, Va. Source Full size
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    Image: AP
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    Image: AP
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  • Iran holds more drills and US carrier nears Mideast in latest preparations for possible war
    Iran holds more drills and US carrier nears Mideast in latest preparations for possible war
    Image: King5 (Seattle, WA)
    Iran holds more drills and US carrier nears Mideast in latest preparations for possible war (Credit: via ap) Source Full size

Trump Issues 10‑15‑Day Deal Deadline and Warns of “Bad Things.” On Feb 19‑20 2026 President Donald Trump told reporters Tehran had “ten to fifteen days” to seal a nuclear agreement, warning that failure would bring “bad things” and threatening that U.S. bases could become legitimate targets if attacked [4][5][6][7][20]. He reiterated the deadline at the Board of Peace summit, linking the ultimatum to both diplomatic outreach and the possibility of a new air campaign [3][6]. The statement sparked a flurry of diplomatic activity, including a letter from Iran’s UN ambassador urging the Security Council to curb U.S. “unlawful threats of force” [1][4][7].

U.S. Positions Two Carrier Strike Groups and Dozens of Warplanes Near Iran. The Navy moved the world’s largest carrier, USS Gerald R. Ford, from the Caribbean toward the Strait of Gibraltar and the eastern Mediterranean, while the USS Abraham Lincoln already operated off Oman and near Iranian waters [11][12][14][19][20]. Together the strike groups comprise at least 12 warships, multiple guided‑missile destroyers, and roughly 150 aircraft—including F‑22, F‑35, F‑15, and F‑16 fighters stationed at Qatar’s Al Udeid base—providing a sustained sortie capability of up to 800 daily missions [11][14][19][20]. Senior officials said the full complement of forces should be in place by mid‑March, reinforcing Trump’s “red‑line” posture [4][18][19].

Iran’s UN Envoy Declares All U.S. Regional Assets Legitimate Targets. On Feb 19 2026 Ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani sent a letter to UN Secretary‑General Antonio Guterres and the Security Council stating any U.S. aggression would make “all bases, facilities, and assets of the hostile force in the region” lawful targets [1][4][7]. Iravani labeled Trump’s social‑media remarks “belligerent” and urged the Council to compel the United States to cease “unlawful threats of the use of force” [1][4]. Tehran simultaneously pledged to pursue diplomatic solutions while warning of “defensive retaliation” if attacked [1][4].

Board of Peace Launched with $10 B U.S. Funding and Broad International Participation. At the inaugural summit on Feb 19‑20 2026 Trump announced a new Board of Peace that will “almost be looking over” the United Nations and disclosed a $10 billion U.S. contribution to fund conflict‑resolution efforts, including Gaza reconstruction [2][5][10][13]. Representatives from more than two dozen countries—such as Kazakhstan, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Indonesia—joined the board, along with FIFA President Gianni Infantino and former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair, who praised the 20‑point plan as the region’s “only hope” [5][13][10]. The board’s mandate extends to overseeing negotiations with Iran, signaling a parallel diplomatic track to the military buildup [2][10].

Buildup Marks Largest U.S. Presence Since Early 2000s, Yet Diplomacy Remains Official Stance. Analysts note the deployment constitutes the biggest Middle‑East force concentration since the 2003 Iraq War, with two carriers, dozens of destroyers, and advanced missile‑defence systems such as Patriot and THAAD being shipped to the region [3][6][14]. Despite the escalation, White House officials continue to stress a preference for a diplomatic solution, urging Iran to accept a deal that would curb uranium enrichment and missile ranges [3][10][16]. The contradictory signals—massive military assets alongside calls for negotiation—reflect Trump’s “dual‑track” strategy of pressure and peace [3][6][15].

Decision Timing Remains Fluid; Sources Differ on Imminence of Strike. Some reports say the military could act as early as the weekend of Feb 22‑23 2026, with forces already positioned for a rapid strike [6][14][20]. Other outlets note that Trump has not given final authorization and that the decision remains “undecided” pending further briefings [20][17]. This discrepancy underscores the uncertainty surrounding the next step, even as the buildup and diplomatic deadlines progress in parallel.

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Quinnipac: 7 Out Of 10 Voters Do Not Want The U.S. To Take Military Action Against Iran For Killing Of Protesters, Quinnipiac University National Poll Finds; 70% Say Presidents Should Seek Congressional Approval Before Taking Military Action Against Another Country

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Timeline

Dec 22, 2025 – Iran’s foreign ministry declares its missile programme “defensive and non‑negotiable,” insisting the arsenal deters aggression and will not be discussed in any future talks, a stance that follows Israel’s claims Tehran is rebuilding its missiles after the June war [28].

Dec 24, 2025 – Iran and the United States reaffirm a commitment to diplomacy at a UN Security Council meeting, while the IAEA reports Tehran holds over 440 kg of uranium enriched to 60 %, underscoring the widening gap over a nuclear‑deal framework [24].

Dec 28, 2025 – President Masoud Pezeshkian declares a “full‑scale war” with the United States, Israel and Europe, comparing the conflict to the 1980‑89 Iran‑Iraq war and warning that Western actions have crippled Iran’s economy [23]; a similar interview on the supreme leader’s website repeats the claim and cites the June 2025 U.S.–Israeli strikes and Iran’s retaliation at Al‑Udeid [27].

Jan 15, 2026 – U.S. analysts note that the U.S. weapons stockpile is depleted yet still powerful, while the Wall Street Journal reports Trump has ordered military assets to be ready for a possible strike on Iran [22].

Jan 16, 2026 – Qatar, Oman, Saudi Arabia and Egypt press Washington and Tehran to restrain, as the Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group begins a five‑to‑seven‑day transit toward the Gulf, carrying roughly 90 aircraft and Tomahawk‑armed destroyers [21].

Jan 20, 2026 – The nuclear‑powered carrier USS Abraham Lincoln departs the western Pacific, sailing through the Strait of Malacca toward the Indian Ocean, marking the third carrier reroute to the Middle East in a year of rising Iran tensions [20].

Jan 24, 2026 – IRGC commander Gen. Mohammad Pakpour warns the United States and Israel that the Guard is “more ready than ever, finger on the trigger,” as Trump announces a “massive fleet” including the Abraham Lincoln moving into the Indian Ocean “just in case” [30].

Jan 26, 2026 – Tehran unveils a giant anti‑U.S. mural in Enghelab Square depicting a damaged carrier and the slogan “If you sow the wind, you will reap the whirlwind,” coinciding with the U.S. carrier group’s approach and Trump’s claim the fleet is “just in case” [19].

Jan 27, 2026 – Trump tells Axios the U.S. navy fields a “big armada” near Iran, larger than the force deployed near Venezuela, while the Abraham Lincoln carrier group arrives in CENTCOM’s area of responsibility [18].

Jan 30, 2026 – The Abraham Lincoln strike group moves into the Arabian Sea, intensifying concerns of a broader confrontation as Iran endures its most severe protest crackdown since 1979, with thousands killed and internet blackouts [17].

Jan 31, 2026 – Analysts note Trump’s limited options: a precise strike on IRGC or nuclear sites or a broader bombardment, while the U.S. naval presence shrinks from two carrier groups to one, reflecting a narrowed but still potent pressure on Tehran [16].

Feb 1, 2026 – Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warns the United States that any attack “will be a regional war” and that even the world’s strongest military could be crippled, as Trump signals a massive naval presence with the Abraham Lincoln carrier near Iran [14][15].

Feb 2, 2026 – President Masoud Pezeshkian orders the start of nuclear talks with the United States, while Trump expresses optimism that a deal could avert conflict and simultaneously orders an aircraft‑carrier group to move toward West Asia [26].

Feb 3, 2026 – An F‑35C from the USS Abraham Lincoln shoots down an Iranian Shahed‑139 drone 500 mi off Iran’s coast, and IRGC boats harass a U.S.–flagged tanker, yet diplomatic talks continue with Turkey slated to host negotiations later in the week [13].

Feb 4, 2026 – Iran’s president calls for “fair and equitable” talks after a crackdown, while the U.S. Navy downed another Shahed‑139 drone and the White House stresses that Trump still prefers a diplomatic solution [12].

Feb 6, 2026 – With approval below 40 %, Trump faces domestic pressure as U.S.–Iran talks begin in Oman, focusing on nuclear, missile and terrorist‑sponsorship issues amid Iran’s internal crises and weakened proxies [11].

Feb 17, 2026 – Iran briefly closes the Strait of Hormuz for live‑fire drills, the first announced shutdown since U.S. threats began, while Geneva negotiations produce only a vague “set of guiding principles” and no concrete deal [9][10].

Feb 18, 2026 – In Geneva, Iran and the U.S. agree on “guiding principles” and plan to exchange detailed proposals within two weeks, as Iran temporarily shuts part of the Hormuz Strait for IRGC drills and Vice President JD Vance notes Trump’s non‑negotiable “red lines” [8].

Feb 19, 2026 – Trump gives the world a ten‑day deadline to see whether the U.S. reaches a nuclear deal or launches military action; the Board of Peace expands beyond Gaza, the U.S. deploys two aircraft carriers (Abraham Lincoln off Oman, Gerald R Ford heading east), and Congress prepares a War Powers vote despite low odds [2][3][4][7][6].

Feb 20, 2026 – Trump issues a new Iran ultimatum at a Board of Peace meeting, mixing diplomatic language with the threat of a fresh air campaign, while the administration orders its largest Middle‑East military buildup since 2003 and reminds Iran that striking a deal would be “very wise” [1][29].

Feb 20, 2026 – Trump warns Iran it has “ten‑to‑fifteen days” to secure a nuclear agreement, stating that failure will bring “bad things,” as a second U.S. carrier (Gerald R Ford) moves toward the eastern Mediterranean and U.S. officials expect the full complement of forces to be ready by mid‑March [29].

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