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The ongoing tit-for-tat attacks between Iran and Israel have heightened tensions in the Middle East, raising fears of a broader conflict. Despite calls from the United Nations and several countries to halt the violence, the situation continues to deteriorate. Against this backdrop, the United States is reportedly planning to deploy one of its most advanced aircraft carriers, the USS Gerald R. Ford, near the Middle East. Jordan-based news outlet Roya News reported this development on Friday, June 20.
Citing a U.S. Navy official, Roya News stated that the USS Gerald R. Ford is scheduled to depart from its home port in Norfolk, Virginia, on June 24, heading toward European waters. This deployment marks the third U.S. carrier to be stationed near the Middle East amid escalating tensions following the outbreak of hostilities between Iran and Israel, a close U.S. ally. Commissioned in 2017, the nuclear-powered USS Gerald R. Ford is considered the U.S. Navy’s most technologically advanced and powerful aircraft carrier, weighing 100,000 tons.
On Thursday, U.S. President Donald Trump indicated that he would take two more weeks to decide on potential military intervention against Iran. Speaking to journalists in New Jersey on Friday, Trump claimed that Israel is currently prevailing in the ongoing conflict with Iran. He remarked, “When someone is winning, it’s hard to tell them to stop. But we are ready to talk, and we are talking with Iran. Let’s see what happens.” Trump further stated that Israel is performing strongly in the conflict, while Iran is comparatively less successful.
Meanwhile, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has declared that Tehran will not engage in talks with the U.S. while Israel’s attacks continue. Following a meeting with European counterparts in Geneva on Friday, Araghchi emphasized that Iran would consider diplomatic solutions only if Israel’s aggression ceases and accountability is ensured for what he described as “heinous” attacks. He reiterated that Iran’s nuclear program is entirely peaceful and that attacks on it violate international law, adding that Iran will continue to exercise its right to self-defense.
Currently, the USS Carl Vinson is deployed in the Middle East and has participated in U.S. airstrikes targeting Houthi forces in Yemen. Additionally, the U.S. has sent large military transport aircraft to bases across Europe and relocated several aircraft from Qatar’s Al Udeid Air Base, likely in anticipation of potential Iranian attacks.
Analysts suggest that Trump’s remarks reflect Washington’s continued support for Israel’s military operations. However, Iran’s firm stance and the U.S. decision to deploy the USS Gerald R. Ford could further escalate tensions in the region.
AI/MR
