The Latest
-
Iran Threatens USS Abraham Lincoln Amid Tensions
Tehran also expressed intentions to target U.S. universities in the region.
Expand +
Iran declared its intent to target the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier if it enters missile range. Iran’s navy chief issued this statement following remarks from Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, who accused the United States of preparing a ground assault on Iran while simultaneously pursuing diplomatic channels.
In Islamabad, Middle East powers are holding talks to mediate the conflict. These discussions aim to find an end to the ongoing hostilities in the region.
-
Iran Attack Damages U.S. Military Aircraft in Saudi Arabia
Ten U.S. service members were injured, some critically.
Expand +
On March 27, the Iranian attack on Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia led to significant damage to U.S. military aircraft, including a possible total loss of a U.S. Air Force E-3 Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft.
Ten U.S. service members were injured, some critically.
Images circulated on social media show what appears to be extensive damage to the E-3. The authenticity of these images is not yet confirmed, though initial assessments suggest they might be genuine. The attack reportedly involved long-range drones and ballistic missiles. Commercial satellite imagery from foreign sources shows notable damage to the base’s main apron. Satellite imagery before the image delays by major U.S. providers, such as Planet Labs, indicates attempts to protect assets by dispersing aircraft across the airfield.
Five other tankers were also damaged earlier in the conflict at Prince Sultan Air Base, a key site for supporting the U.S. war effort. The U.S. had deployed six E-3s to the Middle East before the conflict, and replacements like the E-7 Wedgetail are delayed. Iran has reportedly targeted regional radar installations, with potential targeting data support from Chinese and Russian satellites.
-
Pentagon May Reroute Weapons from Ukraine to Middle East
The possible reallocation includes air defense interceptor missiles purchased through a NATO initiative designed to supply U.S. arms to Ukraine.
Expand +
The Pentagon is considering reallocating weapons initially intended for Ukraine to the Middle East due to the challenges posed by the conflict in Iran, according to a Washington Post report citing three sources familiar with the situation.
A Pentagon representative assured the Washington Post that the Defense Department remains committed to ensuring that U.S. forces and their allies receive necessary resources to succeed.
In response to inquiries about the report, a NATO official confirmed the ongoing commitment of alliance members and partners to the Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) program. They stated, “Equipment is continuously flowing into Ukraine,” noting that several billion dollars have already been pledged, with further contributions anticipated.
-
U.S.-Iran Talks Denied by Tehran, Airstrikes Paused
President Donald Trump announced a five-day pause in U.S. airstrikes against Iranian energy infrastructure, citing ‘very good and productive conversations’ with Tehran about resolving regional hostilities. However, Iran claims no direct or indirect talks with U.S. officials have occurred.
Expand +
President Donald Trump announced a five-day pause in U.S. airstrikes against Iranian energy infrastructure, citing ‘very good and productive conversations’ with Tehran about resolving regional hostilities. However, Iran claims no direct or indirect talks with U.S. officials have occurred.
Over the weekend, Trump had given Iran 48 hours to lift its blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, warning of potential consequences. Despite Iran’s denial, Trump insists discussions are progressing, with ‘major points of agreement’ identified. He noted the talks involved his Middle East envoys and a ‘respected’ Iranian leader, not Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, who remains incapacitated following recent events.
Tehran’s Fars News Agency disputes Trump’s claims, suggesting his statements indicate a withdrawal from aggressive stances. Despite the purported diplomatic efforts, tensions persist, with Iran allegedly planning retaliatory strikes on key U.S. infrastructures, and Iranian armed forces threatening the use of ‘secret weapons.’
-
Strikes Near Israel’s Nuclear Research Center Mark New Phase of War
Iranian missiles hit areas near Dimona in southern Israel, raising concerns over proximity to nuclear facilities.
Expand +
Iranian missile strikes on March 21 targeted southern Israel, hitting areas around Dimona and Arad. The attacks injured over 100 people and caused significant damage.
Evidence indicates that the Shimon Peres Negev Nuclear Research Center near Dimona was not directly hit, though at least one missile landed nearby. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed no damage to the facility and reported normal radiation levels after the attack.
Dimona is a critical site linked to Israel’s nuclear research. Although specific capabilities are undisclosed, the site’s strategic importance makes military activity in the vicinity notable, even if unintentional impacts occur.
-
Iran threatens to attack Mideast electrical plants powering US bases
Israel and Iran continue exchanging strikes, heightening regional tensions.
Expand +
Early Monday, Israel conducted extensive strikes on Tehran’s infrastructure, while Iran renewed its attacks on neighboring Gulf states, threatening to target their power plants. Amid heightened tensions over the Strait of Hormuz, U.S. President Donald Trump issued a 48-hour ultimatum for Iran to reopen the waterway, threatening military action against Iranian power plants. In response, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard warned of retaliatory strikes on American bases’ power supplies.
In an interview on Iran International, U.S. Central Command chief Adm. Brad Cooper advised Iranians to remain in shelters, noting Iran’s missile and drone launches from populated areas might be targeted.
Meanwhile, defense systems in the United Arab Emirates intercepted a missile near Abu Dhabi, injuring one person with shrapnel. Saudi Arabia and Bahrain also reported intercepting projectiles. Rising oil prices and stock market volatility reflect global apprehensions about an energy crisis.
-
Kremlin: Ukraine Peace Talks Paused Amid Iran Conflict
The Kremlin announced a pause in Ukraine peace talks, citing the Iran conflict.
Expand +
The Kremlin announced Thursday that peace negotiations with the Trump administration concerning the Russia-Ukraine conflict are on a “situational pause” due to ongoing events in Iran.
Ukraine has expressed readiness to support the U.S. in countering drone attacks from Iran, while Russia has opposed the U.S. and Israeli military actions. CIA Director John Ratcliffe informed a Senate committee that Iran has sought Russian intelligence support, but did not confirm whether such support was provided, citing classified discussions.
Six months ago, President Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin met in Alaska to further peace talks for the Ukraine crisis.
In December, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky proposed a comprehensive peace plan, which involves some territorial concessions and a security pact involving the U.S., NATO, and European nations.
-
Iran Women’s Soccer Team Receives Hero’s Welcome in Tehran
Iran’s women’s soccer team returned home to a hero’s welcome after some players initially sought asylum.
Expand +
Iran’s national women’s soccer team returned home to a large welcome in Tehran after playing in the Women’s Asian Cup in Australia. The team members, including six players and a staff member, initially sought asylum but later decided to return. The return drew attention amid allegations of familial pressure by Iranian authorities.
State media reported thousands gathered in Valiasr Square for the event, where images showed expressions of loyalty to Iran. Players, who faced backlash for not singing the national anthem during an early match, later joined in singing it. Team members who returned cited national pride over offers of asylum-related incentives.
In Australia, some players, criticized at home as “wartime traitors,” submitted asylum claims, which they later withdrew. Activists allege their families faced pressure in Iran, while Iranian officials mentioned athletes were courted by lucrative offers abroad.
Iranian soccer official Farideh Shojaei acknowledged these offers but praised the athletes for prioritizing their national identity. Two players remained in Australia, while the others traveled back to Iran via Malaysia, Oman, and Turkiye.
-
FBI Takes Down Pro-Iranian Websites After Stryker Hack
The FBI seized websites linked to Handala after a cyberattack on Stryker.
Expand +
The U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) shut down two websites linked to the pro-Iranian hacktivist group Handala, which recently claimed responsibility for a cyberattack on U.S. medical technology company Stryker. One site publicized Handala’s cyberactivities, while the other doxed individuals tied to the Israeli military and defense firms. These sites now display a banner citing U.S. law enforcement activity.
The FBI’s announcement suggested that the websites were used for cyber activities involving a foreign state actor, stating, “The United States Government has taken control of this domain to disrupt ongoing malicious cyber operations and prevent further exploitation.” Nameserver records confirm FBI control.
-
Iran Signals Nuclear Talks with US as Regional Tensions Rise
Expand +
Iran may begin new nuclear talks with the United States in the coming days, according to semi-official outlets Fars and Tasnim news services, citing unidentified government sources. The discussions would take place within the framework of nuclear negotiations and could involve senior officials including U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.
“We’re ready for diplomacy, but they must understand that diplomacy is not compatible with threats, intimidation or pressure,” Araghchi said on state television.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said multiple Middle Eastern countries have acted as intermediaries. Iranian officials, including Araghchi, have held recent talks with counterparts in Egypt, Turkey, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Iran’s security chief Ali Larijani said Saturday that structural arrangements for negotiations are advancing. Baghaei added that sanctions relief is Iran’s main priority and called the country’s approach “realistic.”
The diplomatic activity comes amid heightened tensions, with U.S. President Donald Trump threatening military action against Iran if no agreement is reached to limit its nuclear program. On Sunday, Trump said American naval units were days away from Iran while Gulf allies worked to broker a deal.
Oil prices fell sharply Monday, with Brent crude dropping about 5% to below $66 a barrel, reacting in part to increased diplomatic engagement. Prices remain up roughly 8.5% this year due to ongoing risks of conflict.
On Sunday, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warned of a potential “regional war” if Iran is attacked. Iran has previously said it would respond to strikes with attacks on Israeli or U.S. bases.
Trump last month threatened military action following a government crackdown on protests over living conditions in Iran. The U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency reported more than 6,800 fatalities, with additional cases under review.
Although Trump later shifted focus to Iran’s nuclear program as a reason for potential strikes, Tehran halted international nuclear inspections at some sites after a series of airstrikes in June by Israel, later joined by the U.S. Trump has claimed Iran’s nuclear program was rendered inoperative, but reduced access for inspectors has made it difficult to verify the status of Iran’s nuclear material.
Amid the rising tensions, UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed canceled a planned state visit to Japan, according to Japan’s public broadcaster NHK. Some major Japanese buyers of liquefied natural gas also said they would skip a key conference in Qatar this week due to security concerns. The UAE government did not respond to a request for comment.
-
Iran Summons EU Envoys Over Terror Listing of Guard
Expand +
Iran summoned European Union ambassadors in Tehran on Sunday and Monday after the bloc designated the paramilitary Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps a terrorist group.
The EU took the step last week over the Guard’s role in a crackdown on widespread protests in January that killed thousands and led to tens of thousands of arrests, according to rights groups. The designation adds to international pressure on Iran, although it is largely symbolic. The Guard has significant influence over Iran’s economy and security apparatus.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said possible responses are being considered.
“A series of actions were reviewed, various options are being prepared and were sent to the related decision-making bodies,” Baghaei said.
Iran’s parliament speaker said Sunday that Tehran now designates all EU militaries as terrorist groups, citing an existing 2019 law.
The Revolutionary Guard was formed after Iran’s 1979 Islamic Revolution to protect the cleric-led government. It operates alongside the nation’s regular military and has extensive business and security interests. The Guard’s Basij force is believed to have played a central role in suppressing recent protests, particularly after Jan. 8 when Iran began cutting internet and phone access. Videos verified through external means reportedly show security forces beating and shooting demonstrators.
Efforts to restart diplomacy are underway. Two Turkish officials said Turkey is attempting to bring together U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian officials for possible talks this week. The officials spoke anonymously, citing government protocol. U.S., Iranian, and Turkish officials have not publicly confirmed any scheduled meetings.
Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met several times last year to discuss Iran’s nuclear program, including in Rome and Oman. Talks ended after an escalation in June, when Israel launched strikes on Iran, leading to a 12-day conflict. During that period, the U.S. bombed three Iranian nuclear sites.
Baghaei declined to comment on potential talks in Ankara, but said, “It is natural that regional countries have intensified their efforts.”
The U.S. has not commented.
Meanwhile, Iranian media reported that prosecutors in Tehran filed charges against staff of the state-run Ofogh TV channel. The charges followed a broadcast that mocked alleged burial practices of protesters killed in the crackdown. The segment referenced rumors that bodies were stored in freezers as propaganda in the event of U.S. attacks.
The U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency reported at least 6,842 people were killed in the protests, though that figure remains unverified. Iran’s government reported 3,117 deaths as of Jan. 21, including civilians and security forces. It labeled the remaining as “terrorists.” On Sunday, the presidency published names of 2,986 of the deceased, an unusual move.
Iran confirmed that Revolutionary Guard naval drills in the Strait of Hormuz took place Sunday and Monday, following earlier warnings to ships. The strait is a key oil transport route. The U.S. Central Command warned Iran not to harass warships or impede commercial traffic.
Satellite imagery from Planet Labs PBC reviewed by the Associated Press showed small fast boats operating at high speed in the strait, away from main commercial lanes.
Asked about war risks, Baghaei said, “Don’t worry at all,” but declined to say whether the U.S. has given Iran a deadline to respond to its demands.
-
EU Labels Iran’s Revolutionary Guard a Terror Group
Expand +
The European Union on Thursday designated Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard as a terrorist organization in response to Tehran’s response to recent protests, the bloc’s top diplomat said.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas announced the move on X, formerly Twitter, adding that foreign ministers had unanimously approved the decision. “Any regime that kills thousands of its own people is working toward its own demise,” she said.
“This will put them on the same footing with al-Qaida, Hamas, Daesh,” Kallas added, using an Arabic acronym for the Islamic State group. “If you act as a terrorist, you should also be treated as a terrorist.”
The 27-nation bloc also imposed sanctions on 15 Iranian officials, including senior commanders of the Revolutionary Guard, in connection with the Iranian government’s suppression of protests. The U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency has reported at least 6,373 deaths in recent weeks, including more than 5,900 protesters and 113 children.
The designations are primarily symbolic but increase international pressure on Iran, which already faces multiple rounds of sanctions from the U.S., the United Kingdom, and others. The Revolutionary Guard has significant military and economic influence within Iran.
Iran has not officially responded to the EU’s action but previously criticized European countries for considering the designation. The United States and Canada already list the Guard as a terrorist organization.
France, which initially expressed concerns over the risk to its citizens detained in Iran, later supported the listing. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot said France backed additional sanctions and the designation, stating, “There can be no impunity for the crimes committed.”
Kristina Kausch, deputy director at the German Marshall Fund, described the action as “a symbolic act” that reflects a shift from dialogue to a strategy of isolation. She said the designation of a state military branch as a terrorist group is “one step short of cutting diplomatic ties.”
Alongside the listings, the EU also sanctioned six Iranian organizations, including those involved in internet surveillance. Internet access in Iran has been severely restricted in recent weeks.
Impacted individuals and groups face asset freezes and travel bans within the bloc. Because the Guard holds extensive business interests in Iran, the sanctions could affect any assets held in Europe.
Against the backdrop of sanctions, Iran’s currency fell to a record low of 1.6 million rials to the dollar on Thursday. Economic strain has fueled unrest that broadened into opposition to the country’s governing system.
Formed after the 1979 Islamic Revolution, the Revolutionary Guard was tasked with protecting the country’s clerical leadership and has since gained political, military, and commercial power. Its Basij unit is believed to have played a central role in controlling recent protests.
Sanctioning the Guard is complex, as many young Iranian men are conscripted into it as part of mandatory military service.
Iran also issued a maritime warning Thursday, announcing plans for live-fire naval drills in the Strait of Hormuz on Sunday and Monday. Two Pakistani officials verified the notice, though Iran has not acknowledged the drill publicly. The Strait handles 20% of global oil shipments.
The hardline Iranian newspaper Keyhan said any move against Iran could trigger a response that would close the strait and target U.S. forces. U.S. military officials did not respond to requests for comment on the warning.
Also Thursday, the mayor of Tehran said the city plans to build bomb shelters and install air-raid sirens, though described the effort as a long-term project.
Meanwhile, opposition figure Mir Hossein Mousavi renewed calls for a referendum on constitutional reform. A previous effort did not gain traction.
Iran’s government has said 3,117 people have died in recent protests, including 2,427 civilians and security personnel, and referred to others killed as “terrorists.” Past government estimates often underreport fatalities.
-
U.S. Air, Naval Forces Surge in Middle East Amid Tensions With Iran
Expand +
The United States is increasing its military presence in the Middle East, with additional aircraft and naval assets deployed amid ongoing tensions with Iran. Movements include a possible redeployment of F-35A stealth fighters from the Caribbean to the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) region. The jets, originally from the Vermont Air National Guard, were spotted landing in Lajes, Portugal, en route to an undisclosed destination. The Pentagon has declined to confirm these movements, citing operational security concerns.
The deployment follows a larger buildup that includes F-15E Strike Eagles stationed at Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan and squadrons of F-35Cs, F/A-18E/F Super Hornets, and EA-18G Growlers aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln, currently operating within CENTCOM’s area of responsibility.
Flight-tracking data also showed EA-18G Growlers traveling from Oceana Naval Air Station in Virginia to Morón Air Base in Spain, suggesting a possible forthcoming deployment to the region. These electronic warfare aircraft are capable of supporting long-range strike missions, particularly against targets with integrated air defenses.
Other tactical aircraft already operating in the region include F-15Es, A-10 Thunderbolt IIs, and F-16 Fighting Falcons. Additional aircraft, such as HC-130J Combat King II combat search and rescue planes, have arrived or are in transit. C-17 Globemaster III and C-5M Galaxy cargo jets are transporting equipment, including Patriot missile batteries and Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) systems, according to the Wall Street Journal.
A WC-135R Constant Phoenix jet, which monitors for nuclear materials, also arrived in the United Kingdom from the United States. While its destination is unconfirmed, analysts noted such aircraft have been used to collect nuclear signatures during past operations.
The movements coincide with a multi-day CENTCOM readiness exercise, though the scale and pace of deployments suggest broader operational preparations. The guided-missile destroyer USS Delbert D. Black recently joined U.S. naval forces in the Red Sea, operating alongside the Lincoln and other vessels.
Amid the buildup, President Donald Trump and Iranian officials have exchanged warnings. Trump stated on his Truth Social platform that Iran should abandon its nuclear weapons ambitions or face potential military action, referencing last June’s airstrike campaign, known as Operation Midnight Hammer, against Iran’s nuclear facilities.
At a cabinet meeting Thursday, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the Pentagon was prepared to carry out presidential directives. “They should not pursue nuclear capabilities. We will be prepared to deliver whatever this president expects of the War Department,” he said.
CNN, citing unnamed sources, reported Trump was considering multiple options, including airstrikes targeting Iranian leaders or nuclear sites. While no final decision has been made, sources said the presence of the U.S. carrier strike group in the region has expanded the range of military options.
Iran, in turn, announced it had distributed 1,000 drones across its military branches. According to the state-run IRNA News Agency, the drones are designed for strike, reconnaissance, and electronic warfare roles. No images were provided, and IRNA cited security concerns.
Iranian officials said the move was in preparation for potential future conflict. Civil defense efforts are also underway in Tehran, where officials announced plans to convert underground parking garages and metro stations into emergency shelters.
Regional diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions have so far been unsuccessful. The Wall Street Journal reported that Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty spoke separately with Iranian and U.S. envoys, including Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff, but made no progress.
According to Axios, the U.S. is holding talks this week with senior defense and intelligence officials from Israel and Saudi Arabia concerning Iran. The report also noted that Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have declined to allow use of their territory for any potential U.S. military strike.
The latest escalation follows violent protests in Iran that began on Dec. 28 over economic hardship, currency devaluation, and water shortages. Reports indicate that thousands of anti-government demonstrators were killed in the crackdown.
-
Iran executes man convicted of spying for Israeli Mossad
Expand +
Iran executed a man on Wednesday who was convicted of spying for Israel’s intelligence agency Mossad, the country’s judiciary said.
Hamidreza Sabet Esmailpour was hanged at dawn after being found guilty of passing information to an Israeli agent, Iran’s Mizan news agency reported.
According to Mizan, Esmailpour was also convicted of purchasing equipment to support sabotage operations targeting Iranian missile sites. Authorities said he moved vehicles rigged with explosives.
His execution follows a broader crackdown in Iran. Rights groups say at least 12 people have been executed on similar charges since the brief war between Israel and Iran in June. The groups have also raised concerns that demonstrators arrested in recent anti-government protests may face capital charges.
Protests erupted in late December over rising living costs and evolved into broader demonstrations against the Iranian government. Rights groups report that thousands have been killed and tens of thousands arrested during the crackdown.
The most recent similar execution occurred Jan. 7, when Ali Ardestani was put to death for allegedly sharing information with Mossad.
Iran, which does not recognize Israel, has long accused it of carrying out sabotage against its nuclear program and targeting its scientists. The June conflict revealed the extent of Israeli intelligence operations inside Iran, according to Iranian authorities.
Iran has pledged expedited trials for individuals accused of collaborating with Israel.
Rights organizations have questioned the fairness of these proceedings, citing concerns over forced confessions and lack of transparency. They warn that executions may be based on coerced admissions, while actual perpetrators remain at large.
Iran carried out at least 1,500 executions in 2023, making it the second-most prolific user of the death penalty after China, according to figures from Norway-based NGO Iran Human Rights.
-
Houthi Rebels Threaten Red Sea Ships as USS Carrier Nears Iran
Expand +
Yemen’s Houthi rebels, backed by Iran, threatened new attacks on vessels in the Red Sea, citing continued tensions in the region as a U.S. aircraft carrier moves closer to Iran.
A video released by the group included images of a ship on fire with the caption “Soon.” The Houthis, who have previously targeted over 100 ships in the area, said their earlier attacks aimed to pressure Israel over its conflict with Hamas. They paused operations following a ceasefire but have warned of possible renewed action.
The threat emerged as the USS Abraham Lincoln and accompanying destroyers headed for the region. President Donald Trump said the deployment was precautionary amid escalating tensions with Iran. Trump has set two conditions for possible military action: the killing of peaceful protesters and the mass execution of detainees following ongoing demonstrations.
Iranian Defense Ministry spokesperson Gen. Reza Talaei-Nik warned that any attack from the U.S. or Israel would provoke a response “more painful and more decisive than in the past.” State media said these threats necessitated “full and comprehensive preparedness.”
Over the weekend, Iran unveiled a banner in Tehran’s Enghelab Square that depicted a U.S. aircraft carrier with imagery of violence, warning: “If you sow the wind, you will reap the whirlwind.” The display follows a June conflict with Israel that Iranian media acknowledged significantly damaged Iran’s air defenses and nuclear sites and resulted in the deaths of senior military officials.
On Sunday, Iran restricted airspace to small private aircraft, except for oil sector and emergency medical use, amid ongoing security concerns. Several Western carriers have avoided Iranian airspace, though some Gulf-based airlines continue to use the route to reach Moscow. In 2020, Iranian forces mistakenly shot down a Ukrainian passenger plane, killing 176 people.
Nationwide anti-government protests in Iran began Dec. 28 after the collapse of the rial. The government responded with a broad crackdown and a more than two-week internet shutdown—the most extensive in the country’s history.
The U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency on Sunday reported 5,848 deaths and over 41,280 arrests. The group’s figures, based on local networks, have proven reliable in past unrest. The Associated Press has not independently confirmed these numbers.
Iran’s official count stands at 3,117 deaths, including 2,427 civilians and security personnel, labeling the remainder as “terrorists.” The true scale of the crackdown remains unclear.
-
US deploys Navy strike group toward Gulf amid Iran tensions
Expand +
The United States is deploying an aircraft carrier strike group and other military assets to the Gulf, with President Donald Trump stating the movement is intended as a potential response to Iran amid heightened tensions in the region.
“We’re watching Iran. We have a big force going towards Iran,” Trump said Thursday. “Maybe we won’t have to use it. Just in case, we have a big flotilla going in that direction, and we’ll see what happens.”
The USS Abraham Lincoln had previously been operating in the South China Sea before being redirected to the Middle East. The strike group includes Arleigh Burke-class destroyers equipped with Tomahawk cruise missiles and the Aegis combat system, which provides air and missile defense capabilities.
U.S. officials told Reuters that the deployment includes consideration of additional air defense systems to protect against potential attacks on U.S. bases in the region.
The buildup follows a U.S. military strike last month on three Iranian nuclear sites during a 12-day conflict involving Israel. At the time, U.S. forces launched 30 Tomahawk missiles from submarines and carried out airstrikes with B-2 bombers.
Trump had publicly voiced support for anti-government protesters in Iran earlier this month, telling them, “Help is on its way.” The protests have since been suppressed, and Trump has reduced the intensity of his military rhetoric.
On Thursday, Trump declined to say whether he wanted Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei to step down, saying: “I don’t want to get into that, but they know what we want. There is a lot of killing.”
He reiterated a claim that threats of U.S. military action prevented the execution of over 800 protesters—an assertion denied by Iranian officials.
The U.S. operates 40,000 to 50,000 troops at military bases across the Middle East, including eight permanent installations in Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, according to the Council on Foreign Relations.
Iranian commanders warned against U.S. or Israeli strikes. Ali Abdollahi Aliabadi, a senior military official, said U.S. bases would become “legitimate targets.” Gen. Mohammad Pakpour of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps stated Iran is “more ready than ever, finger on the trigger.”
Following such threats, the U.S. temporarily withdrew some personnel from bases in the region earlier this month.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned in The Wall Street Journal on Tuesday that Tehran would respond to any attack with full force, predicting a prolonged conflict.
The military developments have affected commercial aviation. Air France canceled two Paris-Dubai flights over the weekend, citing safety assessments. Luxair also postponed a flight from Luxembourg to Dubai by 24 hours. Dutch carriers KLM and Transavia canceled flights to Dubai and Tel Aviv.
On Friday, the U.S. Treasury imposed sanctions on nine vessels and their owners, accusing them of transporting Iranian oil to foreign markets in violation of sanctions. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the vessels were part of a shadow fleet funding Iran’s internal crackdown.
The protests in Iran—which began December 28 after a currency collapse—have been met with competing casualty claims. Iranian state media said 3,117 people died, including 2,427 civilians and security personnel. The U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency confirmed 5,137 deaths and is reviewing 12,904 additional cases.
On Friday, the United Nations Human Rights Council passed a resolution condemning Iran for its response to the protests. Iran’s envoy, Ali Bahreini, accused the U.S., Israel, and their allies of arming “terrorists” involved in the unrest and criticized Western nations for commenting on Iran’s human rights record.
-
Some US personnel advised to leave Qatar base amid tension
Expand +
Some personnel at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar were advised to evacuate by Wednesday evening as a precaution, a U.S. official said.
The official, who spoke to the Associated Press on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter, said the move followed comments from a senior Iranian official referencing a previous Iranian missile strike on the base.
The official declined to provide further details, including whether the evacuation was mandatory, how many individuals were affected, or if it applied to military or civilian staff. The Pentagon declined to comment.
Qatar’s media office stated Wednesday that the action was taken in response to regional tensions. “The IMO reaffirms that the State of Qatar continues to implement all necessary measures to safeguard the security and safety of its citizens and residents as a top priority, including actions related to the protection of critical infrastructure and military facilities,” the office said in a post on X.
The situation follows remarks by Ali Shamkhani, an adviser to Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who referred to the June missile strike on the base in response to U.S. action targeting Iranian nuclear sites.
On the social platform X, Shamkhani wrote: “The #US President, who repeatedly talks about the futile aggression against #Iran’s nuclear facilities, would do well to also mention the destruction of the US base in #Al-Udeid by Iranian missiles. It would certainly help create a real understanding of Iran’s will and ability to respond to any aggression.”
The June incident caused no injuries to U.S. or Qatari personnel, according to U.S. Central Command. A Qatari military officer said one of 19 missiles struck the base. The U.S. president said at the time that there was little damage.
Iranian and Qatari leaders spoke by phone on Tuesday. Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani said in a statement on X that he “reaffirmed the State of Qatar’s backing of all de-escalation efforts, as well as peaceful solutions to enhance security and stability in the region.”
The U.S. president has stated publicly that he is open to military action in Iran if the government continues to target protesters.
Iran’s strike on the base in June marked an unusual point of friction with Qatar, which said it was not informed of the attack in advance. The two countries maintain diplomatic ties.
-
Iran Says Ready for War With US, Open to Talks Amid Unrest
Expand +
Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Monday the country is prepared for war with the United States, though it remains open to diplomatic negotiations.
“We do not want war, but we are completely prepared for it—even more prepared than before the previous war,” Araghchi told foreign diplomats in a televised meeting in Tehran, according to CNN. “The reason is clear: the best way to prevent war is to be prepared for war, so that our enemies do not once again fall into miscalculation.”
His remarks come amid widespread protests in Iran and increasing tension with the United States. As of Sunday, 544 people had died in protests across 585 locations in Iran, according to the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA). The group also reported more than 10,700 people had been arrested. Military.com could not independently confirm the figures.
Iran’s state-affiliated Tasnim news agency reported that at least 109 security personnel had been killed in the unrest, which began in December in Tehran. Protests have centered on concerns over economic conditions and the declining value of the rial, Iran’s national currency.
Asked about Araghchi’s comments, Pentagon press secretary Kingsley Wilson told Military.com, “The Department of War stands ready to execute the orders of the Commander-in-Chief at any time and in any place.”
On Sunday, President Donald Trump, speaking aboard Air Force One, said the U.S. military is considering “strong options” in response to the ongoing violence. A day earlier, Trump said on Truth Social that the U.S. aims to support Iranian protesters. “Iran is looking at FREEDOM, perhaps like never before,” he wrote. “The USA stands ready to help!!!”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also voiced support for the demonstrations. “Israel supports their struggle for freedom and strongly condemns the mass massacres of innocent civilians,” he said. “We all hope that the Persian nation will soon be freed from the yoke of tyranny, and when that day comes, Israel and Iran will once again be loyal partners in building a future of prosperity and peace for both peoples.”
Netanyahu and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio discussed the protests on Saturday, according to an Israeli official cited by ABC News.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said Monday that communication remains open between Araghchi and U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff. CNN reported that messages continue to be exchanged when necessary.
-
U.S. Strikes in Venezuela, Iran Support Asia Deterrence
Expand +
Recent U.S. military actions in Venezuela and Iran have reinforced deterrence efforts in the Indo-Pacific, the head of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command said Monday.
Adm. Samuel Paparo told attendees at the Honolulu Defense Forum that the operations demonstrated U.S. military capabilities and resolve, which he said support regional stability in Asia.
The annual conference, hosted by Pacific Forum International, brings together global defense and industry leaders to discuss military readiness and deterrence.
Paparo cited two operations in particular: Operation Absolute Resolve and Operation Midnight Hammer. The former involved the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife by U.S. forces on Jan. 3, as part of a wider campaign of strikes in Venezuela. The couple was flown to the United States and faces charges tied to narcotics-related terrorism.
While President Donald Trump called the mission “brilliant,” many Democratic lawmakers criticized it as a violation of domestic and international law. Some analysts have raised concerns the action could prompt China to act more aggressively toward Taiwan.
In the separate Operation Midnight Hammer, U.S. forces struck three nuclear facilities in Iran in June.
“To the extent that Midnight Hammer and Absolute Resolve were expressions of capabilities and will, ultimately they help to preserve deterrence in the Indo-Pacific,” Paparo said.
Responding to questions at the forum, Paparo rejected the idea that the Indo-Pacific had diminished as a strategic U.S. focus due to operations in other regions.
“The Department of War has been quite clear that the Indo-Pacific is a priority theater,” he said.
He added that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth views North Korea, China, and Russia as leading regional threats.
However, the White House’s National Security Strategy, released this fall, designated the Americas as the top strategic priority, focusing on migration and transnational crime. It also reaffirmed the Indo-Pacific’s importance and encouraged allied nations to take increased responsibility for the region’s defense.
Paparo said that recent operations in Latin America, Africa, and the Middle East had not drawn resources away from Indo-Pacific forces.
“We’ve not seen any of those operations actually divert forces that would otherwise be used for deterrence,” he said. “None of those have really imposed any cost at all on our ability to fight and win in the Indo-Pacific.”