US preparing for weeks-long Iran operations as another carrier heads to Middle East
Times of India
by TOI WORLD DESKFebruary 14, 2026
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The United States is reportedly preparing for a prolonged military campaign against Iran, potentially lasting several weeks, if President Donald Trump authorizes an attack. This development comes amid heightened tensions as Trump has ordered a second aircraft carrier to the Middle East, signaling a possible shift from diplomatic posturing to active conflict. The move follows the deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln strike group in response to Iran's crackdown on domestic protests and now includes the USS Gerald R. Ford, the Navy's newest and most advanced carrier, which has been redirected from its Caribbean deployment.
The decision reflects Trump's frustration with decades of failed negotiations with Iran, particularly over its nuclear program. During a visit to Fort Bragg, Trump expressed support for regime change in Tehran, stating, "Seems like that would be the best thing that could happen." He also warned of "very traumatic consequences" if a new nuclear deal is not reached, underscoring his administration's hardline stance.
Meanwhile, Iran has threatened retaliation if attacked and criticized the US military buildup as provocative. Tehran has dismissed claims that it seeks Russian or Chinese military assistance, maintaining its opposition to foreign intervention. However, with US forces now at a critical mass in the Persian Gulf, tensions remain high, and the potential for escalation continues to grow.
This situation matters globally because the Middle East is a key
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/14/2026