Trump weighs strikes as he gives Iran ‘10 to 15 days’ to agree deal over nuclear programme – US politics live

The Guardian World

by Tom Ambrose

February 20, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The Trump administration is escalating tensions with Iran as President Donald Trump has given the country a 10-to-15-day window to reach an agreement on its nuclear program. Meanwhile, the US has positioned military assets in the Middle East, signaling its readiness to launch an aerial bombing campaign if diplomatic efforts fail. This move comes amid heightened regional tensions and concerns over Iran's nuclear activities. In another significant development, the Trump administration announced plans to roll back air quality regulations for power plants, specifically targeting mercury and hazardous air toxics. The decision was unveiled during an event in Kentucky, where officials argued that easing these restrictions would reduce costs for utilities operating older coal plants. This rollback is particularly notable as demand for electricity has surged due to the rapid expansion of data centers used for artificial intelligence. Critics, including public health groups, have expressed strong opposition to the regulatory changes. They warn that this decision will harm the most vulnerable populations in America by increasing air pollution and its associated health risks. Environmental advocates argue that rolling back these protections undermines decades of progress in reducing harmful emissions and could have long-term consequences for public health. The administration's actions reflect a broader shift in priorities under Trump, emphasizing economic and industrial interests over environmental and public health concerns. As the US continues to build its military presence in the Middle East, observers are closely monitoring whether diplomatic efforts with Iran will succeed or if tensions will escalate into conflict. Similarly, the rollback of air quality regulations has sparked debates over the balance between energy production and public health, highlighting the ongoing tension between economic growth and environmental protection.

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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/20/2026