The United States Navy is increasing its military presence in the Middle East as President Donald Trump considers possible military action against Iran amid ongoing tensions over its nuclear programme and other disputes.
In this context, officials told The New York Times that the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford, the largest in the US fleet, has received orders to depart the Caribbean Sea and head towards the Middle East.
Second carrier in the region
The move will raise the number of US aircraft carriers in the region to two. The USS Abraham Lincoln and three accompanying destroyers have already operated there since late January, strengthening US deterrence against Iran in a period of heightened tension.
Rapid redeployment of forces
The deployment of the USS Ford marks a swift shift of forces from western to eastern waters after the carrier had been sent to the Caribbean in October for a separate mission. Reports indicate its crew will have served about eight months by the time the vessel reaches the Middle East.
Diplomacy alongside warnings
Trump has kept diplomatic channels open and has repeatedly said he prefers an agreement with Tehran. However, he has warned that failure in negotiations would bring “very serious” consequences, reinforcing deterrence through the movement of additional naval forces.
The development comes as indirect US–Iran talks continue through mediators such as Oman but have yet to produce a decisive agreement.
Also read: Trump sends second carrier as Middle East tensions rise
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