Washington, January 17, 2026 (Agencies) — The United States has deployed at least one aircraft carrier to the Middle East, according to a report by Fox News citing anonymous military sources. The move follows a series of thinly-veiled threats against Iran by President Donald Trump, as the Islamic Republic continues to grapple with mass protests.
Iran has been rocked by demonstrations since late December, fueled by public anger over soaring inflation and the sharp decline of the national currency, the rial. The protests have escalated into violent clashes with security forces, leaving hundreds dead, according to reports. Tehran has accused the United States and Israel of orchestrating the unrest.
Fox News reported Thursday that the warship en route to the region could be the USS Abraham Lincoln or one of two carriers that departed from Norfolk and San Diego earlier this week. The outlet noted that Washington already maintains three destroyers and three Littoral Combat Ships in the area. Sources suggested that the U.S. military presence may soon be reinforced with additional air and ground strike capabilities, as well as missile defense systems, in what officials described as “setting the force” for potential offensive action.
NBC News, citing multiple sources familiar with the matter, reported that President Trump has been weighing a “swift and decisive blow” against the Iranian government, while expressing reluctance to commit to a prolonged conflict. Advisers have reportedly been unable to assure him that military action would lead to the immediate collapse of Iran’s leadership, contributing to his hesitation.
Meanwhile, several Gulf nations have privately urged Washington to avoid military strikes, warning of the risk of regional instability and disruptions to global oil markets.
Russia has also voiced opposition to the U.S. posture. Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova denounced Washington’s threats as “absolutely unacceptable,” underscoring Moscow’s stance against the use of force in the region.