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Trump Nears Iran Strike Decision

U.S. President Donald Trump is edging closer to ordering a military strike against Iran, according to U.S.-based news outlet Axios, which warns that any potential operation could trigger a weeks-long, large-scale war in the Middle East.

February 19, 2026Clash Report

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The Trump administration is approaching a critical decision point on Iran, with the risk of open conflict rising sharply. According to U.S.-based outlet Axios, Washington is closer to launching a strike than publicly acknowledged, and preparations are intensifying behind closed doors.

High-Level White House Meeting

U.S. President Donald Trump convened his top national security advisers on Wednesday to assess the crisis. The meeting focused on recent nuclear negotiations held in Geneva and potential responses if diplomacy fails.

Among those attending were senior administration figures, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and other key envoys involved in the talks.

War Scenario on the Table

According to Axios, U.S. officials acknowledge that a military operation against Iran would likely go far beyond a limited strike. Sources cited in the report indicate it could resemble a full-scale war lasting several weeks, rather than a short, targeted campaign.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated there are strategic arguments supporting military action, but emphasized that Trump still favors a negotiated solution. At the same time, U.S. officials have signaled that Tehran must respond with concrete steps addressing Washington’s concerns over its nuclear program.

Military Movements and Diplomatic Pressure

The expected deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group to the Eastern Mediterranean is seen as a key factor in determining the timing of any potential action.

Meanwhile, diplomatic channels remain active. Officials say Iran has been given a limited window to present a proposal that meets U.S. demands. However, skepticism remains within the administration regarding the substance of recent talks.

The coming weeks could prove decisive, as Washington weighs whether to pursue a diplomatic breakthrough or move toward military escalation in one of the world’s most volatile regions.

Trump Nears Iran Strike Decision