The United States is preparing to send a second aircraft carrier to the Middle East as tensions with Iran rise, according to reports. The USS Gerald R. Ford, the largest aircraft carrier ever built, is expected to deploy from the Caribbean with escort ships in the coming days, U.S. officials told The New York Times.
President Donald Trump said this week that a second carrier deployment is under consideration if Washington fails to secure a nuclear agreement with Tehran. He warned that the alternative would be “very traumatic,” signaling a tougher U.S. posture.
BREAKING: A U.S. aircraft carrier is being sent from the Caribbean to the Middle East, an AP source says, as tensions with Iran escalate. The source spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity to discuss military movements. https://t.co/zGnbJsBOt1
— The Associated Press (@AP) February 13, 2026
The move follows last month’s deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln to the region. It also comes after Trump met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss Iran, amid continued disagreement over nuclear talks and missile limits.
Iranian leaders say they are open to negotiations but insist their missile program is not up for discussion. The carrier deployment underscores U.S. efforts to increase pressure while keeping military options visible.
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