‘Massive fleet’ heading to Iran – Trump

The US president has renewed his threats against Tehran, warning “a lot of ships” are heading to the region

Washington is closely “watching” the situation in Iran, US President Donald Trump has said, apparently renewing his threats of using military force against the Islamic Republic over its handling of the violent unrest.

Iran has been hit by mass protests lately over economic hardships and the collapse of the national currency. The protests grew political and violent, with Tehran blaming meddling by the US and Israel, as well as infiltration of “terrorist” elements, for the turmoil.  

According to the latest official figures, more than 3,000 people have been killed in the violence, including nearly 700 “terrorists.” Tehran has repeatedly alleged that organized groups of militants have received instructions, weaponry, and other equipment from abroad, as well as have been paid for acts of violence against government officials and public property.

The US president has repeatedly threatened Iran with possible military action, telling protesters that “help is on its way.” He appeared to tone down his rhetoric last weekend, claiming he had “convinced” himself not to attack Iran.

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On Friday, however, the US president once again warned Tehran of closely “watching” the situation in the country but would “rather not see anything happen” there. 

“We have a massive fleet heading in that direction… and maybe we won’t have to use it… we have a lot of ships heading in that direction, just in case,” Trump told reporters while speaking with reporters aboard Air Force One.

While the Pentagon has not confirmed Trump’s statements on the fleet movements, multiple media reports have indicated that the aircraft carrier group led by USS Abraham Lincoln has been sent to the Middle East from the South China Sea. The group and associated vessels are currently in the Indian Ocean.

Apart from that, multiple aviation monitoring resources have reported movement of additional warplanes and support aircraft, including air tankers, to the US bases in the region. Such redeployments have been interpreted by some experts as signs of a looming military action against Tehran.