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February 19, 2026 — February 20, 2026
World
Timeline: How U.S.-Iran Military Tensions Escalated in February 2026
This timeline tracks the rapid escalation of U.S.-Iran tensions over Iran's nuclear program in mid-February 2026, from diplomatic talks in Geneva through the massive U.S. military buildup in the Middle East. The story develops from cautious negotiations to imminent prospects of large-scale military action within just days, representing one of the most significant U.S. military deployments to the region since the 2003 Iraq invasion.
11 events · 1 days · 30 source articles
Tue, Feb 17, 2026
Major
U.S. and Iran Hold Nuclear Talks in Switzerland
High-level U.S. and Iranian officials met in Geneva, Switzerland for indirect negotiations over Iran's nuclear program. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi described progress, but U.S. Vice President Vance stated that Iran was not responding to President Trump's 'red lines.' The talks involved Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner.
Wed, Feb 18, 2026
Major
Reports Emerge of Imminent U.S. Military Action Against Iran
U.S. news site Axios reported that the Trump administration was approaching a large-scale war with Iran that could begin 'soon.' A U.S. government official told Axios there was a '90% probability' of military action within weeks. The report indicated the operation would be far more extensive than the June 2025 strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, with regime change as the goal.
Wed, Feb 18, 2026
Moderate
White House Confirms Diplomatic Progress but Maintains Military Threats
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that 'some progress' was made in the Geneva talks but significant gaps remained. She emphasized there were 'many reasons and arguments' for an attack on Iran. The administration made clear that military options remained on the table despite ongoing diplomatic efforts.
Thu, Feb 19, 2026
Major
Pentagon Deploys Massive Military Force to Middle East
The Defense Department sent extensive weaponry to the Middle East including two aircraft carrier strike groups, fighter jets, refueling tankers, destroyers, and submarines. This represented the largest U.S. military buildup in the region since the 2003 Iraq invasion. Officials indicated the military could be ready for strikes as early as the upcoming weekend.
Thu, Feb 19, 2026
Moderate
Israeli Forces Increase War Preparations
Israeli military forces went on heightened alert and increased preparations for possible war. Israel's security Cabinet meeting was moved from Thursday to Sunday, according to Israeli defense officials. Reports indicated the operation could involve joint U.S.-Israeli military action.
Thu, Feb 19, 2026
Major
Reports Suggest Military Strike Could Begin Saturday
Multiple U.S. media outlets reported that senior national security officials informed President Trump the military would be ready for a possible attack on Iran starting Saturday, February 22. Trump had not made a final decision but was discussing the matter with top advisers while the White House assessed risks of regional escalation.
Thu, Feb 19, 2026
Moderate
Trump Threatens Use of Diego Garcia and UK Airfield
President Trump posted on Truth Social that it 'may be necessary' for the U.S. to use Diego Garcia and the airfield at Fairford, UK 'to eradicate a potential attack by a highly unstable and dangerous regime' if Iran doesn't make a deal. This signaled the geographic scope of potential military operations.
Thu, Feb 19, 2026
Major
Trump Announces Ten-Day Timeline for Iran Decision
At the opening of his Peace Council, President Trump stated that the situation with Iran would be resolved 'in the next ten days,' saying 'maybe we'll come to an agreement, maybe not.' He added that 'Iran cannot have nuclear weapons' and suggested the U.S. might need to 'take another step' beyond negotiations.
Thu, Feb 19, 2026
Moderate
U.S. Secretary of State Schedules Israel Visit
A U.S. official announced that Secretary of State Marco Rubio would visit Israel on February 28 to meet with Prime Minister Netanyahu and discuss the Iran situation. This diplomatic coordination suggested continued planning for potential joint military action.
Thu, Feb 19, 2026
Moderate
Former CENTCOM Official Says U.S. Could Cripple Iran in Hours
Vice Admiral (Ret.) Bob Harward, former deputy commander of U.S. Central Command, told the Jerusalem Post that the assembled U.S. military assets could dismantle Iran's power structure 'in hours' with 'hundreds of strikes per day.' He said a first wave would focus on strategic missile sites and launchers threatening U.S. forces and Israel.
Fri, Feb 20, 2026
Moderate
Military Experts Outline Scale of Potential Campaign
Military analysts assessed that any U.S. operation would be a massive, weeks-long campaign representing a full-fledged war rather than limited strikes. The Atlantic Council published analysis questioning U.S. objectives, while experts warned Iran could retaliate in unprecedented ways, potentially risking American lives and sparking wider conflict.
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