U.S. media: The "Bush" aircraft carrier will be deployed to the Middle East

Ask AI · What kind of message is the United States trying to convey by deploying the Bush aircraft carrier during the negotiations?

The U.S.-Iran war is still ongoing. Although the United States is trying to negotiate with Iran, the situation may still escalate. It has been reported that the United States plans to deploy the “Bush” aircraft carrier to the Middle East.

CBS (Columbia Broadcasting System) reported on March 27 that multiple sources said the “Bush” aircraft carrier will be deployed to the area of responsibility of the U.S. Central Command, which is the main combatant command responsible for directing U.S. military operations against Iran.

The “Bush” carrier strike group completed its training at the beginning of this month, showing that it is ready to participate in major combat operations.

Although peace negotiations between Washington and Tehran are still in their early stages, some U.S. officials who did not want to be identified said the carrier could potentially join ongoing military operations against Iran.

The United States currently has two aircraft carriers already deployed in the Middle East: the “Lincoln” and the “Ford.” The “Ford” is currently undergoing repairs at a U.S. Navy base in southern Greece, on the island of Crete, after a fire, and the repairs are expected to last for more than a week.

The Wall Street Journal reported on March 26 that, according to U.S. Department of Defense officials familiar with the plans, the Pentagon is considering sending up to 10,000 additional ground troops to the Middle East, so that while U.S. President Trump weighs peace negotiations with Tehran, it can provide more military options.

Earlier that day, U.S. President Trump also urged Iran to take action immediately and not wait until it is too late.

In addition, the American news website Axios also reported that multiple U.S. officials and people familiar with the matter said the U.S. Department of Defense is preparing so-called “last strike” military options targeting Iran, and the plans may include deploying ground forces and conducting large-scale airstrike operations, among other actions.

Some analysts say that if diplomatic negotiations continue to fail to make progress—especially if the situation in the Strait of Hormuz remains blocked—the likelihood of escalation will rise further.