U.S. Issues Ultimatum to Iran: Agree to Nuclear Deal in 15 Days or Face Military Action – 2/20/2026, 8:28:29 PM

Based on the latest news reports, here are the significant global developments:

U.S.-Iran Tensions Escalate

President Trump has issued an ultimatum to Iran, giving the country a maximum of 15 days to agree to a nuclear deal or face military action.[3] Trump stated “bad things will happen” if Iran does not comply.[3] The U.S. is considering a range of military options, from limited strikes to larger-scale operations targeting government, military, and nuclear facilities.[3] The U.S. is demanding Iran eliminate its nuclear program, curb ballistic missiles, and end support for proxy militant groups like Hamas and Hezbollah.[3] Despite this pressure, Iran’s Supreme Leader has responded defiantly, warning that “the strongest army in the world may sometimes get slapped so hard it can’t stand up straight.”[3]

Trump’s Board of Peace Initiative

Trump’s inaugural Board of Peace meeting was held Thursday in Washington, receiving over $5 billion in pledges for Gaza reconstruction.[1] However, the new board has gotten off to a troubled start, with America’s principal European and Asian allies, along with China and India, conspicuously absent.[2]

Prince Andrew Arrested in Epstein Investigation

Former Prince Andrew has been arrested on suspicion of misconduct related to Jeffrey Epstein and subsequently released from custody.[4] The arrest has prompted calls in the U.S. for more transparency and renewed investigations into the Epstein case.[1]

Canada’s Extortion Crisis

The Canadian government has unveiled a plan to tackle the country’s growing extortion problem, with immigration officers investigating hundreds of suspects identified by an extortion task force.[1]

Other Notable Events

Poland has confirmed its withdrawal from a landmine treaty and is ramping up military expansion.[1] Four astronauts have arrived at the International Space Station on SpaceX Crew-12.[1]