"We are deploying a large fleet towards Iran. Many ships are heading in that direction as a precaution for all situations. I don't want to see anything happen, but we are monitoring them very closely. We will see what happens," US President Donald Trump announced on 22/1.

While President Trump did not provide specific details about this force, he suggested it might not be necessary to use it. He also stated that a 25% tariff on countries trading with Iran would soon take effect.

USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier preparing to dock at the US base in Guam in 12/2025. Photo: US Navy

Two US officials confirmed on 22/1 that an aircraft carrier strike group and other military assets would arrive in the Middle East in the coming days. This deployment follows the departure of US warships, including the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier, from the Asia-Pacific last week, amidst escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran.

According to one official, the US is considering deploying additional air defense systems in the Middle East.

Experts noted that while Washington often reinforces its forces during regional escalations, this move could be defensive and does not necessarily signal an imminent US military operation against Iran.

The Middle East region. Graphic: CNN

The recent escalation in Washington-Tehran tensions stems from protests that erupted in Iran from late 12/2025. The demonstrations, initially sparked by merchants dissatisfied with the economic situation and the depreciating rial, were peaceful at first but quickly escalated into deadly violence.

Iran accused "terrorist agents" from Israel and the US of inciting these riots, a claim the US State Department denied, stating Tehran was "distracting public opinion from internal issues".

President Trump had previously mentioned the possibility of supporting protestors, even considering ordering airstrikes on Iran. However, Washington's allies, including Israel, Arab Saudi, Qatar, Oman, and Turkey, reportedly warned President Trump about the prolonged consequences of attacking Iran, leading the US leader to halt military action at the last minute.

Huyen Le (According to Reuters, NY Post)