American press reports, citing responsible sources, revealed that the US administration has decided to move the aircraft carrier 'USS Gerald R. Ford', the largest of its kind in the world, towards the waters of the Middle East. This step comes in the context of strengthening the United States' military readiness to confront any potential scenarios, including the possibility of launching military strikes against Iran if diplomatic efforts reach a dead end.
The sources explained that the carrier 'Ford' and its accompanying combat group, which is currently operating in the Caribbean Sea, will begin its journey towards the region without disclosing the precise coordinates of its final destination. This deployment is expected to last for a long period, as officials confirmed that the warships will not return to their main bases in the United States before early May at the earliest.
This military movement will enhance American striking power in the region, as the 'Gerald Ford' will join the 'USS Abraham Lincoln' aircraft carrier already present there. The US Central Command had announced earlier in January that the deployment of the 'Lincoln' comes within Washington's efforts to ensure regional security and stability and confront increasing threats.
For his part, US President Donald Trump stated that the option of strengthening military presence with a second aircraft carrier remains strongly on the table, especially if the ongoing nuclear negotiations do not yield tangible results. Despite this escalatory tone, Trump described the first round of indirect talks hosted by the Omani capital Muscat as very positive, indicating Tehran's desire to reach an agreement.
In contrast, Tehran adopts a cautious stance, accusing Washington and Tel Aviv of fabricating pretexts to interfere in its internal affairs and attempt to change the existing regime. The Iranian leadership has vowed a firm and harsh response to any military aggression that may target its territories, while at the same time emphasizing that any concession in the nuclear file must be met with a complete and comprehensive lifting of the economic sanctions imposed on it.
The core points of contention are concentrated in strict American demands, as Washington insists on a complete and final cessation of all Iranian uranium enrichment activities. The US administration also stipulates the transfer of the entire stock of highly enriched uranium outside Iranian territory as a fundamental guarantee before signing any new framework agreement that ensures the peaceful nature of the nuclear program.
Regarding logistical preparations, information indicates that the US Department of Defense has received directives to prepare additional options, including the aircraft carrier 'USS George W. Bush'. These comprehensive moves reflect Washington's 'maximum pressure' strategy, which combines massive military buildups with diplomatic channels to extract substantial concessions from the Iranian side in the upcoming meetings next week.
We are considering sending a second aircraft carrier to the region if nuclear negotiations with Iran fail.
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Washington deploys world's largest aircraft carrier to Middle East amid tensions with Iran