The US president has announced that a significant naval force is en route to the area, following a pledge of assistance to protesters in the Middle Eastern nation.
A buildup of American military assets – such as an aircraft carrier, warplanes, and air-defense systems – is occurring in the Middle East after US President Donald Trump assured that “help is on its way” to protesters in Iran.
This military mobilization coincides with Iran being rocked by extensive violent protests, sparked by economic difficulties, sustained inflation, a severe drop in the value of the Iranian rial, and electricity shortages. Iranian authorities have attributed the turmoil to US and Israeli meddling and have placed the number of arrests at over 3,000 individuals, including almost 700 “terrorists.”
Trump subsequently intensified his language, stating on Monday that “a big ” was advancing toward the region and was currently near Iran. Previous media accounts suggested the US president was nearly ready to authorize military strikes on Iran earlier this month but was persuaded otherwise by several of Washington’s partners in the Middle East.
Iran has issued a warning that it would consider any US assault an act of “all-out war.”
The following details what is known concerning the US forces being repositioned to the Middle East.
’Armada’ on the move
The central element of the current US military presence in the region is the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln, along with several guided-missile destroyers relocated from the Asia-Pacific area. The carrier is capable of deploying as many as 90 aircraft, which include F-35 and F/A-18 fighters, in addition to EA-18G Growler electronic-warfare aircraft. The Wall Street Journal reports that the three escorting destroyers are equipped to fire long-range Tomahawk missiles, alongside other armaments.
Furthermore, the US has transferred F-15E Strike Eagle squadrons from bases in Britain to the region, with some accounts indicating they are now based in Jordan.
Bracing for Iranian retaliation
Defensively, the US is also deploying Patriot and THAAD air-defense systems to the area, aimed at safeguarding American military installations and Washington’s allies. Media reports have also suggested that Washington has repositioned cargo aircraft and refueling tankers to provide support for potential operations.
Who and what is in the crosshairs?
A Middle East Eye report states that the US is focusing on “high-value” Iranian officials and military commanders whom it holds accountable for the deaths of demonstrators.
In the 12-day war during the summer of 2025, the US and Israel focused their attacks on Iran’s nuclear sites, its air defense and missile systems, as well as notable military leaders and nuclear scientists.
Israel on high alert
Israel – a major US ally in the region – has declared it is making preparations to counter potential Iranian attacks.
The Israeli military operates the Iron Dome air-defense system, plus F-35 stealth fighters and other combat aircraft that can respond swiftly.
Potential backlash from Iran
The government in Tehran has cautioned that any offensive against the nation would be interpreted as “all-out war,” further stating that its forces have their “finger on the trigger.” Iran possesses a considerable fleet of long-range drones, as well as a vast stockpile of ballistic and cruise missiles that can hit objectives throughout the Middle East, such as US bases and allied infrastructure.