Trump's foreign policy dilemma laid bare by Iran tensions

February 20, 2026

President Trump is threatening military action against Iran while simultaneously leading the Board of Peace, a Middle East coalition aimed at regional stability, creating a contradiction in his foreign policy approach. Despite expressing preference for a diplomatic deal to end Iran's nuclear weapons program, Trump has escalated rhetoric and ordered the largest US military buildup in the Middle East since the 2003 Iraq War. Negotiations between Washington and Tehran have stalled over disagreements about Iran's ballistic missile program and regional proxy support, though Iran has indicated willingness to discuss uranium enrichment.

Who is affected

Iran, particularly its government led by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei
US military personnel and American military bases in the Middle East
Israel and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu
Trump's MAGA base and Republican supporters in Congress who oppose foreign intervention
Gaza residents affected by the Board of Peace-led rebuilding process
US allies concerned about Iran's nuclear program
American voters frustrated with Trump's handling of immigration and the economy

What action is being taken

Trump is ordering a major US military buildup in the Middle East
The US and Iran are engaged in indirect talks (though currently stalled)
The Board of Peace coalition is meeting in Washington
Trump is actively campaigning for the Nobel Peace Prize

Why it matters

This situation matters because it could lead to the largest US air campaign in years, potentially triggering a wider regional conflict that would affect American strategic interests throughout the Middle East. The contradiction between Trump's peace rhetoric and military threats raises questions about US foreign policy credibility and creates uncertainty for allies and adversaries alike. Domestically, an extended military campaign could alienate Trump's political base ahead of midterm elections and undermine his campaign promises to reduce American involvement in foreign conflicts. Additionally, the unclear objectives and lack of explanation for why another strike is necessary after Trump claimed last year's attack destroyed Iran's nuclear facilities creates confusion about actual US goals and strategy in the region.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC