Pentagon preparing to deploy second U.S. aircraft carrier to Middle East: US officials
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- Pentagon prepares to send a second U.S. aircraft carrier to the Middle East amid rising tensions with Iran.
- Trump considers deploying a second carrier to the Middle East to pressure Tehran over nuclear talks.
The Wall Street Journal reported Wednesday that the Pentagon is preparing to deploy a second U.S. aircraft carrier to the Middle East, adding to the USS Abraham Lincoln, which is already in the region.
According to multiple U.S. officials cited by the newspaper, President Donald Trump is considering sending the additional carrier as a measure to increase pressure on Iran amid ongoing nuclear negotiations. One official told the Journal that the order could be issued within hours, though no final decision has yet been made and plans could still change.
Military readiness and deployment plans
The carrier likely to be dispatched is the USS George H.W. Bush, currently conducting exercises off the coast of Virginia. Officials say these drills could be accelerated to prepare the ship for immediate deployment. The Pentagon is reportedly preparing the carrier for departure from the U.S. East Coast within the next two weeks.
This deployment, if ordered, would mark the first time in nearly a year that two U.S. aircraft carriers are stationed simultaneously in the Middle East. In March 2025, the USS Harry S. Truman and USS Carl Vinson were deployed to the region during operations against Houthi forces in Yemen.
U.S.-Iran tensions
Trump recently indicated a tougher stance toward Tehran. In a Truth Social post following his meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump said, “The last time Iran decided they were better off not making a deal, they were hit with Midnight Hammer, that did not work well for them. Hopefully this time they will be more reasonable and responsible.”
The proposed carrier deployment reflects a gradual military escalation designed to complement diplomatic pressure. Sources say the move coincides with enhanced regional reinforcements, including additional warships, air defense systems, and fighter squadrons.
As talks with Iran continue, the Pentagon’s preparations signal Washington’s willingness to consider military options if negotiations fail, amid growing uncertainty in the region.
