Middle East on boil: 5 reasons why Trump may attack Iran anytime now
Times of India
by TOI WORLD DESKFebruary 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The Middle East is teetering on the brink of a major military confrontation between the United States and Iran, with tensions reaching levels not seen in recent years. Diplomatic efforts are faltering, and both sides are escalating their military preparedness. The Trump administration has threatened to take decisive action if no meaningful agreement is reached within the next ten days, heightening fears of a potential conflict.
At the heart of the crisis is the ongoing stalemate over Iran's nuclear program. Despite attempts by previous U.S. administrations to negotiate or revive the 2015 nuclear deal, progress has stalled under President Trump's leadership. Recent secret meetings between U.S. officials and Iranian representatives in Geneva have yielded limited optimism, with key disagreements persisting. The U.S. continues to push for concessions that Iran appears unwilling to make, further straining relations.
The U.S. has significantly bolstered its military presence in the Middle East, deploying aircraft carriers, fighter jets, and advanced defense systems. This unprecedented buildup signals a readiness for potential action. Meanwhile, satellite imagery reveals Iran fortifying its nuclear and missile facilities with reinforced structures and underground tunnels, making them harder to target. These moves suggest both sides are preparing for a possible escalation.
The combination of diplomatic gridlock, visible military posturing, and hardened nuclear infrastructure has raised concerns among global observers. If tensions continue to rise, the region could face a broader conflict with significant implications for global oil markets, regional stability, and U
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/19/2026