Trump offers Khamenei 'token' deal as US continues major military buildup in Middle East
Times of India
by TOI WORLD DESKFebruary 21, 2026
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The United States is escalating its military presence in the Middle East amid heightened tensions with Iran, deploying two aircraft carrier strike groups near the region in an unprecedented show of naval power. Simultaneously, President Donald Trump is reportedly considering a narrow nuclear deal with Iran that would allow limited uranium enrichment, potentially easing some sanctions while maintaining broader restrictions on its nuclear program. This dual approach reflects ongoing efforts to balance diplomacy and deterrence as regional tensions continue to rise.
The USS Gerald R. Ford and the USS Abraham Lincoln, both nuclear-powered aircraft carriers, are positioned strategically in the Mediterranean and Arabian Seas, respectively. The deployment of these warships, along with their accompanying destroyers and support vessels, signals a significant military buildup. Additional assets, including advanced fighter jets like F-22s, F-35s, and F-15s, have been sent to European and Middle Eastern airbases to bolster US capabilities in the region. This build-up is part of broader contingency planning, with Pentagon officials reportedly considering options ranging from diplomatic engagement to targeting key Iranian figures, including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
The situation has grown more complex following a second round of talks between US and Iranian officials in Switzerland, where limited progress was reported. Trump has indicated that the world may learn within the next 10 days whether a deal will be reached or if military action becomes necessary. The ongoing developments have sparked fears of escalating conflict, with Iraqi paramilitary forces recently releasing alarming footage amid growing concerns over
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/21/2026