US sending world’s biggest aircraft carrier to Middle East as tensions with Iran increase
The Hill
by Filip TimotijaFebruary 13, 2026
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The U.S. is deploying its largest aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R. Ford, along with its escort ships, to the Middle East as tensions between Washington and Tehran escalate. This move follows the deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln strike group in the region under U.S. Central Command (Centcom). The decision reflects a significant escalation in U.S. military presence in the Middle East, aimed at addressing growing concerns over regional stability and potential threats from Iran.
The USS Gerald R. Ford, known for its advanced technology and capabilities, is being sent to bolster the Abraham Lincoln strike group, which is already positioned in the area. This strategic deployment underscores the U.S. commitment to safeguarding key waterways, such as the Strait of Hormuz, through which a significant portion of global oil passes. The move also signals a stronger U.S. stance against Iran's activities in the region, including its support for proxy groups and suspected involvement in attacks on Saudi oil installations.
The decision to send the world’s largest aircraft carrier highlights the rising geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and Iran. This comes amid heightened regional instability, with concerns over potential confrontations involving Iran's nuclear program and its influence in Syria, Lebanon, and Yemen. The U.S. military presence is expected to deter Iranian actions and demonstrate a readiness to respond to any threats.
From an economic perspective, this deployment could impact global oil prices, as the Strait of Hormuz remains a critical chokepoint for energy supplies. The move also has broader implications for U.S.-Iran relations, which have been strained since the Trump administration's withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal and subsequent reimposition of sanctions. By increasing its military presence, the U.S. is signaling its determination to protect its interests in the region, even as diplomatic efforts continue to de-
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/13/2026