OAN Staff Chloe Hauxwell
1:06 PM – Thursday, February 19, 2026
The United States continues to maintain a strong military presence in the Middle East while holding talks with Iran aimed at limiting Tehran’s nuclear program.
Reports on Thursday have suggested that the United States is ready to strike Iran within days if negotiations fail.
On Wednesday evening, War Secretary Pete Hegseth told One America News that the Trump administration is focused on making a deal and avoiding conflict.
“But ultimately, right now, it’s about those negotiations and us backing them up to ensure that, should they not follow through on their commitments or be willing to make a deal, the president has options,” Hegseth told One America News. “Only one person will make this decision — well, two people, really. The Iranians can step up and make a real deal, and ultimately, President Donald Trump will decide whether it’s a deal that’s good enough to protect the American people.”
Iranians are calling for diplomacy as its Supreme Leader threatens to strike U.S. bases in the region.
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