Iran vows not to yield as US threatens strikes and boosts forces
Feb 22nd 2026
President Masoud Pezeshkian rejected US pressure as indirect nuclear talks continue and Washington increases its military presence in the Gulf while President Trump says he is considering limited strikes.
- Iranian president Masoud Pezeshkian said Iran will not bow to US pressure.
- President Trump said he is considering limited strikes and gave Iran about 10 to 15 days.
- The US has deployed more than 120 aircraft to the region and is moving the USS Gerald R Ford to join the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group.
- Iran and the US resumed indirect nuclear talks in Oman and held a second round in Switzerland without reaching a breakthrough.
- Iranian foreign minister Abbas Araghchi said a draft deal could be finalised in two to three days to send to Washington.
- Fears of a regional conflict prompted several countries to advise their citizens in Iran to leave the country.