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US Aircraft Carrier Enters Eastern Mediterranean, Increasing Pressure on Iran
The USS Gerald R. Ford, the world’s largest aircraft carrier, has left its base in Crete, Greece, on Thursday, February 26, 2026. This movement coincides with heightened US military presence in the Mediterranean Sea and increased pressure on Iran regarding its nuclear program.
Leaving Crete Amidst Rising Tensions
According to AFP photographers, the USS Gerald R. Ford departed from the US Naval Support Activity Souda Bay in Crete on Thursday, having been docked there since Monday. The US Embassy in Athens deferred comment regarding the ship’s presence to the Pentagon in Washington.
Renewed Nuclear Negotiations
The carrier’s departure occurs as a new round of indirect talks between the United States and Iran commenced in Geneva, mediated by the Foreign Minister of Oman. These discussions center on Iran’s nuclear program, a long-standing source of tension with Western nations.
A Dual Carrier Presence
The US currently maintains a significant military presence in the Eastern Mediterranean, with over a dozen warships in the region. This includes the USS Abraham Lincoln, nine destroyers and three combat ships. The deployment of two US aircraft carriers to the region is considered rare.
These carriers, capable of carrying dozens of fighter jets and crewed by thousands of sailors, represent a substantial projection of US military power in the Middle East.
Iran’s Warnings and Military Capabilities
Iran has warned of potential consequences in the event of aggression. Recent reports suggest Iran has acquired Chinese-made supersonic missiles, claimed to be capable of sinking US aircraft carriers.
Pressure Tactics and Potential for Conflict
The US has been increasing pressure on Iran, with previous threats of military action from President Trump. Concerns remain among Western nations that Iran’s nuclear program aims to develop nuclear weapons, allegations Iran consistently denies.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why is the USS Gerald R. Ford in the Mediterranean? The USS Gerald R. Ford is deploying to the Eastern Mediterranean to increase US military presence and apply pressure on Iran regarding its nuclear program.
- What is the significance of having two US aircraft carriers in the region? The presence of two aircraft carriers is unusual and signals a strong display of US military power, and resolve.
- Is Iran capable of attacking US aircraft carriers? Iran claims to have acquired missiles capable of sinking US aircraft carriers, though the veracity of these claims remains unconfirmed.
