U.S. Bolsters Middle East Military Presence as Iran Talks Continue

Additional warships, air defenses and submarines deployed as potential strike options remain on the table

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The U.S. Defense Department is sending more military assets to the Middle East, including aircraft carriers, destroyers and submarines, as preparations intensify for a possible military strike on Iran if President Trump orders one. This comes even as diplomatic talks continue between the U.S. and Iran over the latter's nuclear and missile programs, with both sides reporting some progress but major issues remaining unresolved.

Why it matters

The military buildup signals the Trump administration's willingness to use force against Iran if the nuclear negotiations fail, raising the stakes in the long-running tensions between the two countries. However, any potential strike could have significant geopolitical consequences, potentially disrupting global oil shipments and damaging U.S. credibility on the world stage.

The details

The additional forces being deployed include the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford moving into the Mediterranean Sea to join the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group in the Persian Gulf. More naval assets like guided-missile destroyers and submarines are also being sent to the region. This allows the U.S. to potentially strike Iran without relying on aircraft based in Gulf states, whose governments have refused to permit offensive operations due to fears of Iranian retaliation.

  • The military assets are expected to be in place by mid-March.
  • Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to visit Israel on Feb. 28 to brief Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the negotiations.

The players

Donald Trump

The President of the United States, who has demanded limits on Iran's missile and nuclear programs as a condition for a new deal.

Abbas Araghchi

The Iranian Foreign Minister, who said there had been 'good progress' in the indirect negotiations in Geneva.

Marco Rubio

The U.S. Secretary of State, who is scheduled to visit Israel to brief Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the negotiations.

Benjamin Netanyahu

The Prime Minister of Israel, who has long opposed Iran nuclear deals and pushed for strikes on Iran's missile infrastructure.

Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps

Iran's elite military force, which conducted military drills in the Strait of Hormuz this week, prompting temporary closures of parts of the strait.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.