Trump says world has 10 days to see if Iran agrees deal or 'bad things happen'

February 20, 2026

President Trump has stated that within approximately 10 days, it will become clear whether the United States will successfully negotiate a deal with Iran regarding its nuclear program or resort to military intervention. While American and Iranian representatives have reportedly made progress during recent discussions in Switzerland, the US has simultaneously increased its military presence in the Middle East, deploying additional forces and equipment to the region. Iran has warned the United Nations that it considers American military installations legitimate targets if they are used to launch attacks, though Tehran maintains it does not seek armed conflict.

Who is affected

President Donald Trump and his administration
Iranian government and its 90 million citizens
US military personnel stationed in the Middle East
Special Envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner
Democratic and Republican lawmakers in Congress (specifically Ro Khanna and Thomas Massie)
UN Secretary-General António Guterres
Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei
British government officials
The approximately two dozen countries comprising Trump's Board of Peace

What action is being taken

The US is surging military forces to the Middle East, including deploying the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier
American and Iranian negotiators are holding talks in Switzerland
Iran is reinforcing military facilities
Congressional members Ro Khanna and Thomas Massie are attempting to force a vote on the War Powers Act next week
Iran's Supreme Leader is posting threatening messages on social media
The Trump administration is reportedly discussing new attack options

Why it matters

This situation matters because it represents a critical juncture that could determine whether the United States enters into armed conflict with Iran, a nation of 90 million people with substantial military capabilities and air defenses. A military confrontation would pose catastrophic risks, including potential retaliation against thousands of US troops stationed throughout the region and destabilization of the broader Middle East. The outcome will also test constitutional boundaries regarding presidential war powers versus congressional authority, and could have far-reaching implications for international diplomacy, global security, and the role of multilateral institutions like the United Nations.

What's next

The outcome of negotiations or potential military action will be determined within approximately 10 days according to Trump's timeline
Congressional members will attempt to force a vote on invoking the War Powers Act next week

Read full article from source: BBC