The Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group is deploying to the Middle East to promote regional security and stability, the United States Central Command (CENTCOM), which oversees US military operations in the Middle East, announced on 26/1.

An unnamed US naval official stated that the Abraham Lincoln carrier group is present in the Indian Ocean, but did not specify its exact location.

The USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier transits the South China Sea on 10/1. Photo: US Navy

This deployment follows an announcement by the United States Air Forces Central Command (AFCENT) that it would conduct the Agile Spartan exercise. The exercise aims to demonstrate the ability to deploy, disperse, and sustain air combat power within the CENTCOM area of responsibility. AFCENT clarified that this is part of routine training and not a response to "current tensions."

The deployment occurs amid escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran. President Donald Trump declared on 26/1 that the US currently has "a large fleet" near Iran, adding that Tehran is eager to negotiate. "I know they want to make a deal. They have called many times," he said. A senior US official confirmed Washington is "ready to cooperate" if Tehran wishes to communicate.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei warned on 26/1 of consequences should there be external intervention, emphasizing Tehran's confidence in its capabilities. "The appearance of that warship will not affect Iran's resolve and seriousness in its efforts to defend the country," he said, seemingly referring to the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier.

Tensions intensified following anti-government protests that erupted in Iran in late 12/2025. These protests were sparked by merchants dissatisfied with the economic situation and the depreciating rial. Initially peaceful, the demonstrations escalated into deadly violence.

Location of the Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group. Graphics: IEJ Media

President Trump had repeatedly mentioned supporting the protesters, including the possibility of ordering airstrikes against Iran. However, Washington's allies warned Trump of prolonged consequences from such an attack, leading the US leader to halt military action at the last minute.

Despite this, the US continues to deploy additional assets to the Middle East. At least 12 F-15E fighter jets were sent to Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan, alongside transport and refueling aircraft deployed across the region.

The Wall Street Journal reported that the US also sent Patriot air defense systems and Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) systems to the Middle East. These deployments aim to enhance defensive capabilities against potential Iranian attacks. The presence of the Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group will significantly boost US forces in the region.

The USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier carries a range of F-35C stealth fighter jets, F/A-18E/F fighter aircraft, EA-18G electronic warfare aircraft, E-2D early warning aircraft, CMV-22B tiltrotor aircraft, and anti-submarine helicopters. The three destroyers escorting the US aircraft carrier are equipped with Tomahawk cruise missiles, capable of participating in strikes against Iran in the event of a conflict.

By Pham Giang (According to AFP, War Zone)