Will Trump Go to War With Iran?
Foreign Policy
by John Haltiwanger and Rishi IyengarFebruary 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The U.S. military is significantly increasing its presence in the Middle East, raising concerns about potential strikes against Iran. As tensions between the two nations escalate, there is growing speculation that President Donald Trump may authorize an attack as early as this weekend if diplomatic efforts fail. The deployment of two carrier strike groups, including the USS Gerald R. Ford, along with additional fighter jets and support aircraft, signals a preparedness for a prolonged military campaign rather than isolated actions.
Jonathan Panikoff, a former U.S. intelligence official, highlights that such a large-scale buildup suggests Trump is unlikely to avoid strikes. He notes that the administration’s force posture indicates a “sustained campaign” targeting not just specific sites but an expanding list of potential Iranian assets. This could include both military and nuclear facilities, as well as retaliation against U.S. forces and allies like Israel.
Despite ongoing diplomatic talks in Geneva, key issues such as Iran’s uranium enrichment and ballistic missile program remain unresolved. Trump has expressed cautious optimism about the negotiations but acknowledges the difficulty of reaching a deal with Tehran
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Originally published on Foreign Policy on 2/19/2026