The Duran Podcast US and Iran prepare for war as talks continue (Live)
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Feb 19, 2026 Rising US–Iran tensions and assessments of a likely US attack. Debate over scale, timing and possible regional spillover. Coverage of Geneva talks on Ukraine and Russia’s negotiating posture. Discussion of naval movements, rare earths leverage, and risks of false-flag pretexts. Exploration of internal politics in Iran, Turkey’s balancing act, and wider multipolar shifts.
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Monitor Maritime Escalation Plans
- Expect Russia to prepare naval protection and retaliatory measures if Western states seize ships.
- Watch for coordinated BRICS maritime responses and Chinese naval support as likely countermeasures.
No Great-Power Shield For Iran
- Mercouris doubts a grand bargain among major powers will limit an Israel–US strike on Iran.
- He thinks China and Russia are helping Iran but see preparations as too late to avoid immediate conflict.
Outcomes Redefine Global Power
- Success or failure of an Iran strike will reshape US global standing and regional stability.
- Mercouris warns 'victory' could destabilize Iran long-term while failure would mark undeniable US decline.