President Donald Trump revealed on 10/2 that he is considering deploying an additional aircraft carrier strike group to the Middle East. This move comes as the second round of negotiations between the United States and Iran is anticipated to take place next week, following previous direct talks that began on 6/2 in Oman.
In an interview with Axios, Trump stated that Washington must either reach an agreement or "do something very tough like last time," referencing the airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities in 6/2025. He emphasized the ongoing military pressure on Iran, noting, "One of our fleets is heading near Iran, and another fleet might depart. I am thinking about deploying another carrier strike group to the region."
US officials identified potential vessels for deployment, including the USS George Washington, currently operating in Asia, and the USS George H. W. Bush, positioned off the eastern US coast. These deployments would take several weeks. The Pentagon is also considering re-deploying the USS Gerald R. Ford, which is currently active in the Caribbean Sea.
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The aircraft carrier USS George H. W. Bush in the Atlantic in 12/2025. Photo: US Navy |
Despite the potential military escalation, President Trump expressed optimism regarding a diplomatic solution. He asserted that Iran is "very eager for a deal" and is engaged in negotiations with significantly more seriousness than before, attributing this shift to military pressure.
"Last time they didn't believe I would do it, they were very confident. These talks are very different. Reaching an agreement on Iran's nuclear program is evident, but their ballistic missile arsenal also needs to be considered. We can achieve a great deal with Iran," Trump added, highlighting the broader scope of the current discussions.
Tensions between Washington and Tehran have remained high in recent months, fueled by protests that erupted in Iran in late 12/2025. In response to these escalating tensions, the US military previously deployed the Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group along with other assets to the Middle East.
The first direct meeting between US and Iranian representatives since 6/2025 occurred on 6/2 in Oman. Ali Larijani, Secretary of Iran's Security Council, arrived in Muscat, Oman, on 10/2 to meet with the Sultan and Foreign Minister, with plans to visit Qatar the following day for discussions with senior officials there.
Oman and Qatar are acting as crucial intermediaries in these ongoing discussions. US officials believe Larijani may be conveying Iran's stance to these nations ahead of the upcoming second round of negotiations.
