USS Gerald R. Ford was spotted leaving the Greek island of Crete on Thursday and reportedly sailing toward the Eastern Mediterranean. The military vessel is rumored to dock at an Israeli port, as Washington continues to increase its military presence in the Middle East. Previously, the US had already deployed another aircraft carrier, USS Abraham Lincoln, to the Arabian Sea, along with three destroyers. Moreover, recent satellite data indicated that strategic bombers, surveillance, and refuelling aircraft have been deployed to the Diego Garcia military base in the Indian Ocean, which US President Donald Trump suggested could be used to strike Iran in case of conflict.
The latest talks in Geneva between the U.S. and Iran on the nuclear issue are ongoing. The U.S. has been increasing military presence in the Gulf as pressure, while both sides are under time constraints to reach a deal. The U.S. wants permanent restrictions, while Iran seeks enrichment rights. The outcome could influence oil markets—a diplomatic solution may ease prices, while escalation could push oil past $100 a barrel.