Islamabad (nytoday): Amid growing tensions between the United States and Iran, Washington has further strengthened its military footprint in the Middle East. The US Navy’s advanced aircraft carrier, USS Abraham Lincoln, has now arrived in the region, significantly enhancing American naval and air power.
According to the US Central Command (CENTCOM), the Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group has been deployed to support regional security and stability. CENTCOM confirmed the development in an official statement shared on the social media platform X, highlighting the United States’ continued commitment to maintaining peace and deterring potential threats in the region.
Arab media reports indicate that US President Donald Trump announced last week the deployment of a large naval force towards Iran. While emphasizing military readiness, President Trump also expressed hope that the situation could be resolved diplomatically and that the use of force would not become necessary.
The aircraft carrier was redeployed from the Asia-Pacific region earlier this month, following a sharp rise in tensions between Washington and Tehran. Relations deteriorated further after Iran’s authorities launched a crackdown on anti-government protests, drawing international concern and criticism from the United States.
President Trump has previously issued strong warnings to Iran, stating that continued violence against protesters could prompt US intervention. However, recent reports suggest a noticeable decline in protest activity across Iran over the past few days.
Historically, the United States has increased troop deployments and military assets in the Middle East during periods of heightened tension, often describing such moves as defensive and precautionary. Similar military preparations were observed ahead of last year’s US actions related to Iran’s nuclear programme.
In addition to deploying aircraft carriers, the Pentagon has begun repositioning fighter jets and advanced air defence systems to the region. The US military has also announced plans for a large-scale military exercise, aimed at showcasing its ability to rapidly deploy forces, expand operations, and sustain long-term air combat capabilities.
Meanwhile, a senior Iranian official warned last week that any military attack on Iran would be viewed as an act of total war, underscoring the seriousness of the current standoff.