A significant shift is underway in the Middle East as the United States increases its military footprint near Iran. The move follows stalled nuclear negotiations and growing concerns inside Washington about Tehran’s enrichment activities. U.S. defense officials confirmed this week that additional naval and air assets have been positioned in the region, marking one of the largest buildups in recent years.
Speaking at the White House, Donald Trump said Iran faces serious consequences if it does not meet U.S. demands tied to its nuclear and missile programs. The Pentagon, in a separate briefing, described the deployments as defensive and intended to deter further escalation.
Among the assets deployed are the aircraft carriers USS Gerald R. Ford and USS Abraham Lincoln, along with additional fighter jets and missile defense systems. Regional allies are closely monitoring the developments, while Iranian officials have warned they would respond to any military action.
Diplomatic channels remain open, but the increased presence underscores the fragile state of negotiations.
