US military build-up intensifies as tensions rise over stalled nuclear talks
February 20, 2026: Donald Trump has escalated pressure on Iran, warning that Tehran has 10 to 15 days to reach a “meaningful deal” with Washington or face consequences. Speaking Thursday, Trump said negotiations must produce results soon, adding that the United States “may have to take it a step further” if progress stalls. Indirect nuclear talks in Geneva have shown little movement, with Iran agreeing to draft a written proposal but refusing to negotiate on its missile programme or regional alliances.
The warning coincides with a significant US military build-up. The USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier has moved near the Mediterranean and could head toward the eastern Mediterranean, while 50 additional US combat aircraft — including F-35s, F-22s and F-16s — have been deployed to the region. Senior US officials said full operational forces for potential action could be in place by mid-March, though deployments do not automatically signal a strike.
Iran has responded with strong deterrent messaging. In a letter to the UN Security Council, Iran’s ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani warned that any US aggression would be met “decisively and proportionately.” Tehran also conducted live-fire drills in the Strait of Hormuz and held joint naval exercises with Russia in the Gulf of Oman and Indian Ocean. Meanwhile, Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel is prepared for any retaliation, underscoring growing regional and global concerns as the diplomatic window narrows.