US EditionU.S. Military Buildup Continues as Iran Faces Possible Strikes
The U.S. has deployed two aircraft carrier strike groups, over 50 fighter jets, and 30,000 personnel in the Middle East, marking the largest buildup since last June's bombing campaign.
- On Tuesday, February 17, 2026, U.S. and Iranian officials met in Geneva while President Donald Trump ordered a regional military buildup, including two aircraft carriers.
- This past week, Geneva discussions yielded what officials called modest progress as three unnamed Iranian officials indicated openness to suspend enrichment for three to five years, the White House said key gaps remain.
- Satellite imagery indicates Iran is fortifying a previously struck site, Reuters reported Iran issued a notice about planned rocket launches on Thursday, and Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei rejected ultimatum demands.
- Analysts warn both sides see short wars as leverage, and a former senior U.S. intelligence official assesses an 80-90% chance of U.S. strikes within weeks.
- U.S. economic pressure has compounded Iran's domestic turmoil as U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said policy caused a dollar shortage, triggering bank collapse and violent protests after January 8.
15 Articles
15 Articles
What we know about the U.S. military buildup near Iran
The U.S. has deployed dozens of military aircraft and other assets to bases in and near the Middle East, with President Donald Trump suggesting Thursday strikes against Iran could begin “within 10 days” if a deal is not reached about its nuclear program.
Will Iran be 11 days late for Trump?
In Focus delivers deeper coverage of the political, cultural, and ideological issues shaping America. Published daily by senior writers and experts, these in-depth pieces go beyond the headlines to give readers the full picture. You can find our full list of In Focus pieces here. The United States and Iran concluded talks in Oman on Tuesday over the future of Iran’s nuclear program. The U.S. wants Iran to suspend all enrichment activities and al…
US Military Buildup Signals Imminent Iran Strikes
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