WASHINGTON: A U.S. aircraft carrier and several supporting warships have entered the Middle East, expanding President Donald Trump’s military options to protect American forces and potentially respond to rising tensions with Iran, U.S. officials said Monday.
The aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln, along with guided-missile destroyers, has moved into the region under U.S. Central Command, according to the officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity.
Trump said last week that the United States had an “armada” heading toward Iran but expressed hope that military force would not be necessary.
The deployment began earlier this month from the Asia-Pacific region as relations between Washington and Tehran worsened following Iran’s crackdown on nationwide protests.
Trump had repeatedly warned of possible U.S. intervention if Iranian authorities continued killing demonstrators, though he later said violence appeared to be declining and that executions were not currently planned.
The U.S. military has frequently increased its presence in the Middle East during periods of heightened tension, often for defensive purposes. However, a significant buildup last year preceded U.S. strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities.
Beyond naval forces, the Pentagon is sending fighter aircraft and air-defense systems to the region. The military also announced plans for exercises aimed at demonstrating its ability to rapidly deploy and sustain airpower.
Iran has warned that any attack would trigger an “all-out war,” while the United Arab Emirates said Monday it would not allow its territory or airspace to be used for hostile actions against Tehran.
The U.S. Al Dhafra Air Base near Abu Dhabi remains a key hub for American military operations across the region.