Iran faces countdown toward agreement or escalation
Deutsche Welle
February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Tensions are escalating as US and Iranian representatives meet in Geneva for fresh talks over Tehran's nuclear program. With the United States amassing military forces in the Middle East, there is growing speculation about a potential "military countdown" if no agreement is reached. President Donald Trump is reportedly considering limited military strikes to pressure Iran into accepting US demands, while some officials suggest a broader campaign aimed at regime change. Tehran has made it clear that it does not seek war but will respond "resolutely and appropriately" if attacked.
Experts warn that even a limited military intervention in Iran could spiral out of control, as the regime might view escalation as a matter of survival. Damon Golriz of The Hague Institute for Global Change highlights the risks of triggering a chain reaction involving Iran's regional proxies, potentially destabilizing the Middle East further. Meanwhile, Kamran Matin, an international relations lecturer at the University of Sussex, argues that Trump may prefer a diplomatic resolution over military conflict due to the unpredictability of war and lack of a clear exit strategy.
Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been actively urging Trump to take stronger action against Iran, warning that Tehran poses an existential threat to Israel. This alignment between Washington and Jerusalem adds another layer of complexity to the situation. While some in Washington are considering regime change as a potential goal, others caution against overestimating US influence and underestimating Iran's resilience.
The stakes are high for global stability, as any escalation could lead to widespread instability in the Middle East, significant economic disruption, and unpredictable consequences for international relations. The outcome of these negotiations will likely determine whether diplomacy prevails or tensions continue to rise toward a potential military confrontation.
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Originally published on Deutsche Welle on 2/25/2026