Top world news headlines as of February 12, 2026, include Israel’s formal participation in U.S. President Trump’s “Board of Peace” initiative for Gaza, severe weather evacuations in Portugal, and Iran’s defiant stance on nuclear talks amid U.S.-Israel discussions.[1][2][3]

Middle East Developments

  • Israel joins Trump’s “Board of Peace”: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu signed Israel onto the initiative after a White House meeting with President Trump, focusing on Gaza’s governance, reconstruction, and a fragile ceasefire amid disputes over Hamas disarmament; the first meeting is set for next week in Washington.[1]
  • Iran’s revolution anniversary rhetoric: Marking the 47th anniversary of the 1979 Islamic Revolution, President Masakan declared Iran’s missile program non-negotiable and rejected U.S. demands during Tehran rallies, following recent protests and amid indirect U.S.-Iran talks in Oman.[1][2][3]
  • Netanyahu-Trump talks: Discussions covered Iran coordination, Gaza, and regional issues; Netanyahu aimed to address Israel’s concerns over Iran’s ballistic missiles, marking his sixth or seventh White House visit since Trump’s return.[1][3][4]

Europe and Weather

  • Portugal evacuations: Portugal’s army evacuated thousands due to heavy rain and winds battering the Iberian Peninsula.[2]
  • Olympics controversies: A Ukrainian skeleton racer was disqualified by the IOC for wearing a “helmet of remembrance,” testing Olympic free speech rules at the Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics; organizers also plan to fix broken medals.[2][6]

Americas and Other Global Stories

  • Cuba energy crisis: Cuba faces deepening blackouts, prompting airlines to send empty flights for stranded travelers and ongoing travel advisories.[2]
  • U.S. policy impacts: Trump’s border czar announced an end to ICE’s immigration crackdown in Minnesota; El Paso’s airspace shut down temporarily over cartel drone concerns from Mexico.[2][3]

These stories reflect the most prominent reports from major outlets like ILTV, Global News, and Democracy Now!, with Middle East tensions dominating coverage.[1][2][3]