A report said potential American military strikes on Iran could target individuals or pursue regime change, as the U.S. wants to reach a deal with Iran.

Protests erupted at Iranian universities on February 21, 2026, marking 40 days since a severe crackdown that resulted in thousands of deaths. Demonstrations began as somber memorials but escalated into vocal anti-government rallies,

Iran on Thursday held military drills with Russia amid escalating tensions with the United States, after President Trump gave the Middle Eastern country a 10-day timeline for the U.S. and Iran to strike a deal over the latter’s nuclear program.

The U.S. buildup in the Middle East has reached a critical mass that could put pressure on Iran in negotiations. And, Trump unveils big plans for Gaza during the first-ever Board of Peace meeting.

Iran and the United States are sliding rapidly towards military conflict as hopes fade for a diplomatic solution to their standoff over Tehran’s nuclear programme, officials on both sides and diplomats across the Gulf and Europe say.

Iran has threatened to retaliate, including by striking U.S. bases, if Washington launches an attack on the country.

While the US, the world’s leading military power, has an overwhelming advantage on paper against Iran, if the two countries go to war, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine has shown that absolute numbers can be deceptive on the battlefield.