The USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier is reportedly positioned close to Iran amidst escalating tensions between the two nations.
President Donald Trump recently cautioned about the advancement of a US naval force, dubbed an “armada,” towards Iran. The carrier, which departed from San Diego in late November, along with accompanying ships and air units from various US bases, had been operating in the South China Sea until a week ago. Sources indicate that the carrier strike group is currently near Iran and is capable of taking swift action if necessary.
Reports suggest that guided-missile destroyers and submarines armed with Tomahawk missiles are also active in the region. Additionally, air defense has been strengthened with F-15 fighter jets stationed at US bases in the vicinity, including Jordan, as confirmed by a US official.
The US has deployed these assets to enhance the protection of its forces in the area amid heightening tensions and to maintain readiness for potential military responses. Meanwhile, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has reportedly taken refuge in a secure underground shelter in Tehran as a precaution. Commander Mohammad Pakpour of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard has cautioned the US and Israel against any misjudgments, stating the readiness of Iranian forces to carry out commands.
Recent reports from the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency revealed over 5,459 confirmed deaths in the Iranian government’s violent crackdown on demonstrators, with an additional 17,031 deaths under investigation.
President Trump had previously threatened intervention in response to the protester deaths but appeared to back down following assurances that planned prisoner executions were halted. Although protests have subsided in recent days, a persistent internet blackout hinders a clear understanding of the situation on the ground.
Returning from Davos on Air Force One, Trump expressed vigilance regarding the situation, mentioning the presence of US naval assets in the region and hoping to avoid any escalation. He highlighted the deployment of additional B-2 bombers for potential missions, emphasizing their effectiveness based on previous operations.
The deployment of significant military resources in the Persian Gulf indicates a tense atmosphere, with Trump hinting at potential further actions if the situation deteriorates. The president underscored the need to address indiscriminate violence in the streets while mentioning the capabilities of the newly ordered B-2 bombers for future operations.
Notably, the US conducted strikes on three nuclear sites in Iran using seven B-2 bombers in June of the previous year.
