Istanbul: The US deployed the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group to the Middle East on Monday as Washington strengthens its military presence in the region: The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier enters the region "to promote regional security and stability," the US Central Command (CENTCOM) said through the US social media company X.

According to Anadolu Agency, US President Donald Trump announced on Saturday that an American "armada" is heading toward the region, indicating that Washington is closely monitoring developments in Iran. Previous assessments have cited insufficient US military presence in the Middle East as limiting strike options in recent weeks, with officials noting "the theater was not ready" after assets were shifted toward the Caribbean and Asia.

Military officials previously mentioned that additional time is needed to prepare forces before any potential attack, as reported by US media. Meanwhile, tens of thousands of people have rallied across Iranian cities over economic grievances and the depreciation of the rial. In response, Trump warned of a US "rescue" if protesters are killed, stating that forces are "locked and loaded."

Trump has expressed that he is considering a "tough response," threatening action if mass executions proceed. However, he later softened his rhetoric, suggesting that Tehran had ceased killing protesters following his warning. In contrast, Iranian officials cautioned that any US attack would result in a "swift and comprehensive" response.