International

Between diplomacy and deterrence: US mobilizes Gerald R. Ford carrier amid stalled Iran talks

United States military forces are positioned to launch potential strikes against Iran as early as this weekend, though President Donald Trump has yet to grant final authorization.

The White House was informed that a significant buildup of naval and air assets in the Middle East has reached operational readiness. While military options remain on the table, sources indicate the President is still weighing the risks after consulting with key allies and national security advisors.

Diplomatic deadlock in Geneva

The escalation follows a high-level Situation Room meeting on February 18. Earlier that day, Trump was briefed by Jared Kushner and special envoy Steve Witkoff regarding three hours of indirect negotiations with Iranian representatives in Geneva.

Despite Iranian claims of reaching "guiding principles," U.S. officials remain skeptical. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt noted that while diplomacy is the preferred path, Iran has several weeks to clarify its position, leaving a dangerous gap between current military posture and future dialogue.

Military assets on the move

The Pentagon is rapidly shifting its regional footprint. The USS Gerald R. Ford, the most technologically advanced aircraft carrier in the U.S. arsenal, is expected to arrive in the theater by the weekend.

Simultaneously, U.S. Air Force assets, including refueling tankers and fighter jets previously stationed in the United Kingdom, are being repositioned closer to the Middle East. This movement coincides with satellite imagery showing Iran fortifying nuclear facilities with reinforced concrete and earthworks.

The geopolitical window

The timing of any potential action faces significant cultural and international constraints. With the Winter Olympics concluding this Sunday and the holy month of Ramadan having begun on Wednesday, regional allies have cautioned that a strike during this period could trigger unprecedented volatility.

Translation by Iurie Tataru

Bogdan Nigai

Bogdan Nigai

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