Trump warns he’s considering limited strikes on Iran and says Tehran ‘better negotiate a fair deal’

Fortune

by Farnoush Amiri, Seung Min Kim, The Associated Press

February 20, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

President Donald Trump has hinted at the possibility of limited military strikes against Iran while urging Tehran to negotiate a fair deal. This comes as Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi indicated that Iran could finalize a draft agreement within days, signaling progress in nuclear talks with the U.S. Despite this, tensions remain high, with both sides preparing for potential conflict. Trump’s comments reflect growing pressure on Iran to meet U.S. demands, including scaling back its missile program and severing ties with regional armed groups. The situation has been further complicated by a significant U.S. military buildup in the Middle East, with additional warships and aircraft deployed near Iran. This includes the deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group to the Mediterranean Sea. Both nations have made clear their readiness for war if negotiations collapse. Ali Vaez, an Iran expert at the International Crisis Group, warned that any U.S. military action would be seen by Iran as an existential threat, potentially escalating the conflict beyond control. The stakes are particularly high for businesses and global markets. The ongoing nuclear standoff could disrupt regional stability, impact energy supplies, and further strain international trade relations. Trump’s administration has sought to leverage economic sanctions against Iran, but progress in negotiations could alleviate some of this pressure. However, with both sides dug in, the potential for escalation remains significant, creating uncertainty for global business operations and markets. The article highlights the delicate balance between diplomacy and military confrontation, emphasizing the risks and stakes involved. For businesses, this underscores the importance of closely monitoring developments in U.S.-Iran relations, as any resolution—or escalation—will have far-reaching economic implications.

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Originally published on Fortune on 2/20/2026