New Delhi: Tensions between the United States and Iran have escalated sharply since President Donald Trump confirmed the deployment of a second aircraft carrier to the Middle East, heightening fears of potential military confrontation amid stalled nuclear talks.
Two US officials told Reuters earlier this week that the world’s largest warship, USS Gerald R Ford, carrying thousands of personnel, fighter jets, and guided missiles, has been redirected from the Caribbean to join the USS Abraham Lincoln already positioned in the Arabian Sea/ Persian Gulf region.
The move bolsters American naval presence as the Pentagon prepares for possible sustained operations against Iran.
President Trump, speaking to reporters, endorsed the idea of regime change in Tehran, stating, “It seems like that would be the best thing that could happen.” He added, “For 47 years, they’ve been talking and talking… We’ve got tremendous power. As you know, another enormous aircraft carrier is on the way, so we’ll see what happens. It would be beneficial if we could resolve this issue definitively.
The deployments follow indirect nuclear negotiations in Muscat, Oman, on February 6, described by Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi as a “good start”, with plans for further rounds. However, Araghchi stressed that Iran will never abandon its right to peaceful nuclear energy, including uranium enrichment, insisting the programme serves energy needs and denying any intent to build weapons. He blamed US “unnecessary demands” for blocking progress.
The US demands curbs on Iran’s nuclear and missile programmes, accusing Tehran of pursuing atomic weapons. Last year, amid a 12-day Iran-Israel conflict, the US bombed Iranian nuclear sites, claiming significant damage, while Iran retaliated against US bases in Qatar.
Historical animosity dates back to the 1953 CIA-backed coup against Prime Minister Mohammad Mossadegh, installing Shah Reza Pahlavi, which fuelled the 1979 Islamic Revolution and the subsequent US Embassy hostage crisis.
With Trump recently meeting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu — discussing Oman talks and potential strikes — reports suggest Israel could join any US action against Iran. Tehran has warned of swift retaliation targeting US regional bases if attacked.
The world closely monitors the delicate diplomatic efforts in the face of increasing military pressure.