Timeline
February 14, 2026 — February 17, 2026
World
Timeline: How US-Iran Military Tensions Escalated in February 2026
This timeline tracks the rapid escalation of US-Iran tensions over a four-day period in mid-February 2026, as the Trump administration prepared for potential weeks-long military operations against Iran while simultaneously pursuing diplomatic negotiations. The developments marked a significant shift from previous confrontations between the two nations, with unprecedented military buildup occurring alongside high-stakes talks in Geneva.
9 events · 4 days · 30 source articles
Sat, Feb 14, 2026
Major
US Plans Potential Weeks-Long Military Campaign Against Iran
US officials revealed that the American military is preparing for a sustained, weeks-long operation against Iran if President Trump orders an attack. The campaign could target not just nuclear facilities but also Iranian state and security institutions. Officials indicated the US fully expects Iranian retaliation, leading to potential cycles of attacks and counterattacks.
Sat, Feb 14, 2026
Major
Two Aircraft Carriers Deployed Toward Persian Gulf
German media outlets reported that a massive strike force consisting of two aircraft carriers, including the USS Gerald R. Ford, and their escort ships was en route to the Gulf region. The deployment represented a significant escalation beyond the previous Operation 'Midnight Hammer' from June 2025, potentially putting thousands of US personnel in the region at risk.
Sat, Feb 14, 2026
Major
Trump Threatens Iran as Diplomacy Continues
President Trump issued warnings that military action would begin 'very soon,' even as plans were confirmed for US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner to hold negotiations with Iran in Geneva on February 17. Secretary of State Marco Rubio cautioned that while Trump preferred a diplomatic deal with Tehran, reaching agreement would be 'very hard to do.'
Sun, Feb 15, 2026
Moderate
Military Buildup Details Emerge
Additional details revealed the US had reinforced its Middle East presence with thousands of troops, fighter jets, and air defense systems alongside the aircraft carriers. The military preparations were intended partly to protect US personnel in the region but also to provide options for sustained operations if Trump decided to strike.
Sun, Feb 15, 2026
Moderate
Retired General Predicts 'Formidable' Military Action
Retired four-star US Army General Jack Keane stated he believes President Trump is inching closer to a decision on using military force against Iran. Keane suggested that the military option decision would 'eventually be made' as Trump escalates pressure on Tehran over its nuclear program.
Sun, Feb 15, 2026
Moderate
Iranian Military Chief Issues Warning to Trump
Major General Abdolrahim Mousavi, Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces, warned that any US war against Tehran would serve as 'a lesson' for President Trump. The warning came after Trump said on Friday that regime change in Iran 'would be the best thing that could happen,' escalating rhetoric on both sides.
Sun, Feb 15, 2026
Minor
Strategic Analysis Outlines Military Option Rationale
The Atlantic Council published analysis outlining six reasons why Trump should consider military action against Iran. The piece noted that talks mediated by Oman faced substantial obstacles, as Iran maintained its ballistic missile program and regional proxy support were non-negotiable—precisely the areas where the Trump administration demanded concessions.
Sun, Feb 15, 2026
Major
Reports Indicate Iran Won't Hold Back in Counterattack
Analysis suggested that Iran would not hold back or provide advance notice of counterattacks as it had done during the previous 12-Day War after US bombing of nuclear facilities. This indicated the potential conflict could be far more serious than previous US-Iran confrontations, with Iran expected to respond forcefully to any American strikes.
Tue, Feb 17, 2026
Major
Geneva Talks Proceed Without Signs of Compromise
US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner met with Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghtschi in Geneva for negotiations, but there were no signs of a sustainable compromise. The US delegation had previously characterized reaching a deal as 'very difficult to impossible.' Reports indicated Iran was willing to discuss its nuclear program only under conditions including sanctions removal, but refused to negotiate on its ballistic missile program and regional proxy support.
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