Up First from NPR US & Iran Plan To Meet Again, CBS: Colbert & Cooper, Social Media On Trial
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Feb 18, 2026 
Bobby Allen, NPR tech reporter covering Zuckerberg's trial over social media harms. David Folkenflik, NPR media correspondent on CBS corporate shakeups and Colbert-Cooper disputes. Jackie Northam, NPR international correspondent with on-the-ground Iran reporting. They discuss Iran-US talks and regional tensions. They cover CBS internal turmoil and a high-profile media dispute. They preview Zuckerberg testifying in a major trial.
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Mourning Marks A Political Flashpoint
- Iran's 40-day mourning rituals create predictable moments for protest activity and government crackdown.
- Jackie Northam reports authorities restrict ceremonies and sometimes use undercover agents and force to suppress them.
Diplomacy Continues Despite Big Gaps
- U.S. and Iranian envoys held indirect talks in Geneva and agreed to keep negotiating in a few weeks.
- Iran insists on its right to enrich uranium while Trump demands zero enrichment, leaving key gaps.
Military Posturing Raises Escalation Risk
- Iran signaled willingness to retaliate if attacked and staged military moves like temporarily closing the Strait of Hormuz.
- Regional hawks including Senator Lindsey Graham urged stronger U.S. action, raising chances of escalation.