Ex-CIA operative John Kiriakou has asserted that Washington has finalized plans to launch a military offensive against Iran as early as next week. Explaining the strategy behind the shifting deadlines, he said: "Well, he'll give you 10 days, he'll give you two weeks, and then he'll just attack two days into it. According to a New York Times report, hundreds of personnel have been moved from Qatar’s Al Udeid facility. Defense analysts believe such a clash would vary significantly from the June 2025 Al Udeid strike, wherein Iranian leaders gave Washington prior warning. A Jerusalem Post report highlighted a stern warning from the Iranian mission to the UN, which stated that, in case of an American attack, "all bases, facilities, and assets of the hostile force in the region would constitute legitimate targets."

Source: Mint February 22, 2026 18:16 UTC