Trump threatens strike on Iran if nuclear deal isn't struck in 10 days, Trump reacts to Fmr. Prince Andrew arrest as Epstein estate settles for $35M, and more | 2.20.26 - Rising Recap

Podcast: Rising

Published: 2026-02-20

Duration: 50 minutes

Summary

President Trump warns Iran of possible military action if a nuclear deal isn't finalized in 10 days. The episode also covers the settlement of the Epstein estate and the arrest of Prince Andrew, alongside intriguing political developments.

What Happened

President Trump issued a stern warning to Iran, stating that 'bad things will happen' if a nuclear agreement is not reached within 10 days. The UK, however, has announced it will block the U.S. from using its military air bases for any strikes against Iran. This has led Representatives Ro Khanna and Thomas Massie to plan a War Powers vote, emphasizing the need for congressional authorization before any military action is taken.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has sparked controversy by planning to sever ties with Harvard University, citing its faculty's anti-military stance. Hegseth accuses Harvard of being a 'red-hot center of hate America activism' and is directing military branches to consider other institutions for tuition assistance. Harvard is noted for receiving significant foreign funding, particularly from China.

A major development in the Epstein case saw the estate settling a class action lawsuit for $35 million with survivors of Jeffrey Epstein's abuse. Prince Andrew's arrest has been noted as an unprecedented situation for the royal family, with concerns he might flee to a country without a UK extradition treaty. The Epstein Files Transparency Act, championed by Khanna and Massie, played a role in the transparency leading to his arrest.

AOC faced criticism for her response at the Munich Security Conference regarding Taiwan, with President Trump mocking her for what he considered a career-ending gaffe. AOC responded to JD Vance's criticisms, highlighting the intense scrutiny she faces. Ross Barkan's column suggests this incident signals a warning to the political left.

In a surprising announcement, President Trump vowed to release government files on UFOs and aliens, following a surge of public interest. This follows Obama's casual mention of the existence of aliens during a podcast appearance. Whistleblowers have claimed the government has found crafts and non-human biologics, adding to the intrigue.

The show also touched on the 250th anniversary of the Department of Justice, where a large Trump banner sparked outrage. Critics like Gavin Newsom have likened it to dictatorship-style propaganda. The episode concludes with mentions of potential 2028 presidential candidates, including Gavin Newsom and Gretchen Whitmer.

Key Insights

• The UK has taken a firm stance against potential U.S. military action in Iran, refusing to allow its air bases to be used for strikes. This move challenges the traditionally close military relationship between the two nations, highlighting a growing tension over Iran policy.
• Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth plans to cut military ties with Harvard University, accusing it of fostering 'hate America activism.' This decision comes amid concerns over Harvard's significant foreign funding, notably from China, which adds a layer of geopolitical tension to the educational sphere.
• In an unprecedented legal move, Prince Andrew's arrest following the Epstein estate's $35 million settlement introduces royal family members into the realm of extradition risk. His potential flight to a non-extradition country underscores the gravity of his legal troubles and the shifting transparency in high-profile cases.
• President Trump pledged to release classified government files on UFOs and aliens, tapping into a surge of public interest. This follows claims from whistleblowers about recovered crafts and non-human biologics, suggesting that what was once considered fringe is now edging closer to mainstream acknowledgment.

Key Questions Answered

What is the Epstein Files Transparency Act?

The Epstein Files Transparency Act, authored by Representatives Ro Khanna and Thomas Massie, aims to ensure transparency regarding the case files of Jeffrey Epstein, facilitating public access to information.

Why is Harvard University under scrutiny by the military?

Pete Hegseth has criticized Harvard University for its anti-military stance and significant foreign funding, prompting plans to cut military ties and reassess tuition assistance programs.

What did President Trump announce regarding UFOs?

President Trump announced plans to release government files on UFOs and extraterrestrial life, citing significant public interest and whistleblower claims about the discovery of crafts and non-human biologics.