In a dramatic escalation of military presence, the United States has amassed a significant force in West Asia, as President Donald Trump assesses the situation with Iran. The buildup includes warships, fighter jets, and refueling aircraft, with military planners indicating a potential strike against Iran could be imminent if ongoing nuclear negotiations falter.

Following the second round of talks in Geneva between American and Iranian officials, reports from major news outlets such as CNN and CBS suggest that the U.S. military is prepared to act as early as this weekend, although President Trump has yet to finalize any orders. Meanwhile, Iran and Russia have conducted joint naval exercises in the Sea of Oman, signaling their readiness to counter any unilateral action in the region.

The U.S. presence now includes as many as 13 warships, comprised of one aircraft carrier, the USS Abraham Lincoln, nine destroyers, and three littoral combat ships, according to sources from AFP. The Lincoln is supported by missile destroyers like the USS Frank E. Petersen Jr., USS Michael Murphy, and the USS Spruance, among others. Additionally, the USS Gerald R. Ford, the world's largest aircraft carrier, is also en route to bolster U.S. forces with its contingent of destroyers and numerous warplanes.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt remarked on the current negotiations, noting that while progress has been made, substantial disagreements persist. She cautioned that there are “many reasons and arguments that one could make for a strike against Iran,” emphasizing that it would be prudent for Iran to pursue a negotiation.

Trump has not held back in his rhetoric, previously threatening Iran with “violence” by his “massive armada” should a fair and equitable deal not be reached. In a recent post on Truth Social, Trump stated, “A massive Armada is heading to Iran. It is moving quickly, with great power, enthusiasm, and purpose.” He assured that this force is equipped and ready to fulfill its mission with “speed and violence” if necessary, drawing parallels to past military engagements, such as the one in Venezuela.