Forget the Board of Peace, Trump may be closer than thought to attacking Iran

The Guardian World

by Patrick Wintour Diplomatic editor

February 19, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The article highlights the growing tension between the U.S. and Iran, suggesting that while much attention has been focused on the inaugural meeting of the Board of Peace in Washington, the real focus should be on Donald Trump's military buildup in the Middle East and its implications for ongoing negotiations with Tehran. According to Axios reporter Barak Ravid, who is widely read but disliked in Iran, U.S. officials view recent Geneva talks as insignificant, referring to them as a "nothing burger." This sentiment has sparked concerns about the potential for a full-scale military attack on Iran being closer than most Americans realize. Ravid's reporting also indicates that Trump’s military preparations are nearing completion, with some sources suggesting a decision on possible action could come within the next 10 days. This has caused oil prices to spike and major U.S. newspapers to speculate about the administration's intentions. Tehran, however, maintains its stance of not negotiating under duress, despite being pressured by Trump’s arsenal of war and the growing rhetoric from Washington. The situation underscores the high stakes involved in the ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Iran. While both sides appear committed to avoiding a direct conflict, the rapid escalation of military readiness and the dismissive tone from U.S. officials suggest that diplomacy may be reaching its limits. The article emphasizes the psychological warfare being waged through media and rhetoric, with Ravid described as a one-man operation against Tehran by Iranian news outlets. For readers interested in global politics and potential flashpoints, this story highlights the volatile nature of U.S.-Iran relations and the unpredictable trajectory of Trump’s foreign policy. The implications for regional stability, economic markets, and international security are significant, making this a critical issue to monitor. As tensions rise, the article serves as a reminder of how quickly diplomatic efforts can sour into something far more dangerous.

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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/19/2026