The US Department of Defence has announced plans to deploy a second aircraft carrier strike group to the Middle East, intensifying military pressure on Iran despite ongoing diplomatic negotiations.
According to US military planners, the existing strike group and regional bases could face a numerical disadvantage if Iran launches a full-scale military response in coordination with its allies, particularly in any joint action with Israel.
Officials told reporters that the deployment is part of contingency planning for a potential strike on Iran should diplomatic efforts fail.
President Donald Trump has not yet issued a formal order, and officials say the plans remain subject to change.
Recent reports indicate that Trump told Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu he prefers a diplomatic solution over war with Iran.
The USS George H.W. Bush is currently completing training exercises off the coast of Virginia and could be redirected earlier if ordered.
On Tuesday, Trump stated, “We have an armada that is heading there, and another one might be going. Washington would have to do something very tough if negotiations collapse.”
The President and Netanyahu held a closed-door meeting to discuss the Iran situation on Wednesday.
“I insisted that negotiations with Iran continue to see whether or not a deal can be consummated,” Trump posted on Truth Social.
“If it can, that will be a preference. If it cannot, we will just have to see what the outcome will be.”
Iran has said it is preparing for both diplomatic and military scenarios. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Tehran is ready for talks but warned it would respond with full military force if conflict breaks out with either Israel or the United States.
According to open-source intelligence (OSINT) reports, China is providing Iran with arms, ammunition, satellite navigation support, and real-time intelligence on US military movements near the Strait of Hormuz.
US officials are aware that China’s superior cyber and space capabilities could rapidly hinder the balance in a conflict, as demonstrated during the brief India-Pakistan clash in May 2025.
Iran has repeatedly insisted it will not fully relinquish its right to enrich uranium and has ruled out negotiations on its ballistic missile programme.
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