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Washington – A potential military confrontation between the United States and Iran looms, threatening to destabilize the already fragile situation in the Middle East and potentially derail President Donald Trump’s recently announced initiatives for Gaza reconstruction, and peace. The possibility of a US strike, which officials suggest could occur within the next 10 days, casts a shadow over the Board of Peace forum convened by Trump, designed to foster stability and aid in the region.

President Trump unveiled the Board of Peace on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at the United States Institute of Peace, outlining a $10 billion US commitment to Gaza’s rebuilding efforts. This initiative, presented as Phase Two of his U.N.-endorsed 20-point peace plan, aims to oversee an international stabilization force in Gaza. However, the focus on Gaza appears increasingly precarious as tensions with Iran escalate, with the president signaling a swift decision point regarding further diplomatic engagement or military action.

Trump Issues 10-Day Ultimatum to Iran

During the Board of Peace meeting, President Trump issued a stark warning to Iran, setting a 10-day deadline to either resume negotiations or face potential military consequences. “We may have to take it a step further, or we may not,” Trump stated, adding that a decision would be reached “over the next probably 10 days.” He offered a glimmer of possibility, noting, “Maybe we’re going to make a deal,” but also warned of “unfortunate” outcomes if talks fail.

The impetus for this ultimatum stems from Iran’s brutal crackdown on protesters in January, where thousands of Iranians were reportedly killed. This has prompted the Trump administration to weigh additional military action, and a second American aircraft carrier group, the USS Gerald R. Ford, is currently heading toward the Middle East, according to reports.

Gaza Reconstruction Plans Face Uncertainty

The timing of the escalating tensions with Iran is particularly concerning given the ambitious goals of the Board of Peace. The initiative, whereas garnering some financial commitments – with other board members pledging approximately $7 billion in total – has faced hesitation from key U.S. Allies who are wary of the board potentially sidelining the United Nations. Concerns have also been raised about the potential for authoritarian governments to gain influence through substantial financial contributions, with reports suggesting permanent membership is linked to a $1 billion cash contribution within the first year.

The $10 billion pledged by the United States, while significant, still requires congressional approval, a process that could be complicated by the looming threat of military action against Iran. The Board of Peace aims to oversee not only reconstruction in Gaza but also the deployment of an international stabilization force. However, a military conflict with Iran could divert resources and attention away from these objectives, potentially undermining the entire initiative.

International Response and Concerns

The inaugural Board of Peace meeting included representatives from at least 40 countries, though several key U.S. Allies were notably absent. President Trump criticized these allies, accusing them of “playing cute” by not joining the initiative. FIFA President Gianni Infantino was the only non-political attendee at the meeting, which also included Vice President J.D. Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner.

The potential for a US strike against Iran has prompted a significant military buildup in the region. The Defense Department is deploying additional warships, air defenses, and submarines, preparing for a possible military operation. Asked about the goal of a potential strike, President Trump declined to answer, stating only that “we’re either going to get a deal or it’s going to be unfortunate for them.”

What to Watch Next

The next 10 days will be critical in determining the course of events in the Middle East. President Trump’s decision regarding Iran will have far-reaching consequences, potentially impacting not only regional stability but also the viability of his Gaza reconstruction plans. The international community will be closely watching for any signs of de-escalation or further escalation, as the situation remains highly volatile. The outcome of the Iran talks, or lack thereof, will undoubtedly shape the future of the Board of Peace and the prospects for lasting peace in the region.

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Caracas, Venezuela – Venezuela’s National Assembly has unanimously approved a sweeping amnesty law aimed at releasing political prisoners, a move heralded by some as a step towards democratic reconciliation but viewed with skepticism by others who claim it excludes key opposition figures. The law was swiftly signed into effect by acting President Delcy Rodríguez, according to reports from TN and Infobae. The legislation comes amid ongoing international pressure for political reforms and a resolution to Venezuela’s protracted political crisis.

The amnesty law, though, is not without its limitations. A key provision excludes individuals “who are or may be prosecuted or convicted of promoting” armed actions against the country, a clause that opposition leaders suggest could encompass prominent figures like María Corina Machado and Leopoldo López, both vocal critics of the Maduro government. This exclusion has sparked immediate criticism from opposition groups and human rights organizations, who argue the law is designed to be selectively applied. “I have to wait to have the definitive text. But We see extremely exclusionary,” said activist Gonzalo Hmiob, vice president of the Foro Penal NGO, according to TN.

Rodríguez, after signing the law, stated, “Hay que saber pedir perdón,” – “One must know how to question for forgiveness” – signaling a potential shift in the government’s approach to political reconciliation. However, the scope of the amnesty, covering events from 1999 to 2026, is as well subject to conditions, specifically excluding cases related to 13 periods of social unrest and those convicted of “hate crimes.”

Concerns Over Exclusions and Political Motivations

The approval of the amnesty law follows months of negotiations and increasing calls for the release of political prisoners. According to Machado, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, the law represents an “irreversible” step towards democracy in Venezuela, but acknowledges it is a result of pressure from the United States government, as reported by EFE. Machado expressed hope that the measure would lead to the release of over 700 prisoners currently held in Venezuelan detention centers.

However, skepticism remains high. Activist Oscar Murillo, secretary-general of the Venezuelan Program of Education-Action in Human Rights (PROVEA), warned that the law contains “an unjustifiable excess of exclusions” that do not align with constitutional principles or international human rights standards. The exclusions raise concerns that the amnesty will not deliver the broad release of political prisoners that many had hoped for.

Families Conclude Hunger Strike Amidst Hope for Release

The announcement of the amnesty law prompted families of political prisoners to end a six-day hunger strike held in a detention facility known as Zona 7 in Caracas. The families had been protesting for the release of their loved ones, stating in a released communication that their actions were “a desperate, but peaceful action against a prolonged injustice. We only demand freedom, dignity and respect for human rights.” The end of the hunger strike signals a cautious optimism that the amnesty law will lead to tangible improvements in the situation of political prisoners.

The law’s passage also comes after a period of heightened political tension, including protests and clashes between demonstrators and security forces in 2024. Even as these events are included within the scope of the amnesty, acts of military rebellion are specifically excluded. The Assembly’s actions also reference the period between 2016 and 2021, when the opposition-led National Assembly was blocked by the ruling party and investigations were launched against opposition leaders.

What’s Next for Venezuela’s Political Landscape?

The implementation of the amnesty law will be closely watched by international observers and domestic stakeholders alike. The key question now is whether the government will adhere to the spirit of the law and release a significant number of political prisoners, or whether the exclusions will render the amnesty largely symbolic. The United States government’s role in pressing for further reforms and ensuring the law’s impartial application will also be crucial. The coming weeks will likely determine whether this amnesty represents a genuine step towards reconciliation or merely a tactical maneuver by the Maduro government.

Share your thoughts on this developing story in the comments below.