U.S. orders USS Gerald R. Ford, world's largest carrier, to Middle East amid Iran tensions

The United States has ordered the USS Gerald R. Ford, the world's largest aircraft carrier, to depart the Caribbean and sail to the Middle East, according to multiple news reports on Thursday.

The Pentagon's decision comes as President Donald Trump escalates pressure on Iran to reach a new agreement on its nuclear program. Officials said the carrier strike group will join the USS Abraham Lincoln, already operating in the Persian Gulf region, along with nine other warships.

The USS Gerald R. Ford, described by the U.S. Navy as the "most capable, adaptable, and lethal combat platform in the world," measures 337 meters in length and is powered by two nuclear reactors. The carrier and its escort ships departed the Caribbean, where the vessel had been stationed during operations related to Venezuela.

U.S. officials told the Wall Street Journal that the Department of Defense has also ordered a second carrier to be prepared for potential deployment to the region within two weeks, though plans remain subject to change. Three American officials said the country is preparing for the possibility of military action against Iran.

The deployment follows indirect talks between the United States and Iran held in Muscat, Oman, on February 6 to discuss the Iranian nuclear program. Those negotiations ended without agreement. On Thursday, Trump warned of "very traumatic consequences" for Iran if an accord is not reached.

According to sources familiar with the deployment, the USS Gerald R. Ford strike group will remain in the region through May or June. The carrier's arrival will significantly increase American military presence in the Middle East as Trump continues to press Tehran on nuclear negotiations.

In January, Trump had already ordered the deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln to the Persian Gulf as a pressure mechanism against Iran.