The United States is deploying one of its most powerful naval strike groups to the Middle East as tensions escalate over Iran’s nuclear programme and ongoing diplomatic deadlock.
President Donald Trump has ordered the deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford the world’s largest and most advanced aircraft carrier alongside aerial refuelling tankers and advanced F-22 and F-35 fighter jets, according to defence reports.
The nuclear-powered carrier strike group departed the Atlantic earlier this week and is heading toward the Mediterranean Sea via the Strait of Gibraltar.
It is expected to join the USS Abraham Lincoln strike group already operating in the region.
The USS Gerald R. Ford can carry more than 75 aircraft, including F-35C stealth fighters, F/A-18 Super Hornets and electronic warfare jets.
The strike group is accompanied by guided-missile destroyers, enhancing both offensive and defensive capabilities.
In addition to naval deployments, more than 50 fighter aircraft including F-16, F-22 and F-35 jets have reportedly been repositioned closer to the Middle East. Some are stationed in allied bases in Jordan, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia.
The deployment represents one of the largest U.S. military buildups in the region in recent years and is widely seen as a show of force as negotiations over Iran’s nuclear activities stall.
Military analysts say the expanded presence would allow the U.S. to conduct deep airstrikes while providing defensive cover for troops and regional allies.
Iran has warned it would retaliate against U.S. forces and partners if attacked. Tehran recently conducted missile drills and temporarily closed the Strait of Hormuz during the exercises, signalling its readiness to respond to any strike.
Despite the buildup, the White House has not ruled out diplomacy.
Officials say military action remains an option if negotiations fail, but no final decision has been announced.
The deployment underscores growing fears of a broader regional conflict as both sides increase military readiness while diplomatic efforts continue
