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USS Abraham Lincoln Strike Group Arrives in Middle East, Expanding U.S. Options on Iran

U.S. commanders describe the deployment as deterrence following Iran’s protest crackdown.

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In this handout photo provided by the US Navy, the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln transits the Strait of Hormuz as an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter from the Nightdippers of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 5 lifts off from the flight deck, Nov. 19, 2019.
Two girls, not wearing the legally required headscarves, walk past a billboard depicting a damaged U.S. aircraft carrier with disabled fighter jets on its deck and a sign reading in Farsi and English, "If you sow the wind, you'll reap the whirlwind," at Enqelab-e-Eslami (Islamic Revolution) Square in Tehran, Iran, Sunday, Jan. 25, 2026. (AP Photo/Vahid Salemi)

Overview

  • U.S. Central Command said the carrier and three destroyers are operating in the Indian Ocean to promote regional security and stability, restoring a carrier presence to the region.
  • The buildup includes F-15E strike aircraft, additional tankers and cargo lifts, and expanded Patriot and THAAD air defenses, with a planned exercise to demonstrate rapid dispersal and sustainment of airpower.
  • Regional officials report rising concern that Washington could order strikes within days, a step they fear would trigger retaliation by Iran and proxy groups against U.S. bases.
  • President Trump described a large “armada” headed toward Iran and said he hopes force will not be needed, with no order for strikes issued to date.
  • Iran warned of a “comprehensive and regret‑inducing response,” IRGC commanders and allied militias signaled readiness to retaliate, and the UAE said it will not allow its territory, airspace or waters to be used for hostile actions against Iran.