Fearing escalation: US bolsters forces and prepares for strike on Iran | Report

Mediators in the Middle East are urgently working to renew negotiations with Iran, fearing a renewed flare-up. Meanwhile, the US military is preparing for the possibility of military confrontation and drawing up strike plans. A third aircraft carrier is en route to the region, and an additional amphibious assault ship carrying Marines is being moved to the Middle East. The Houthis have attacked targets in Saudi Arabia.

Mediators in the Middle East are urgently working to renew negotiations with Iran, fearing a renewed flare-up of fighting in the region, as reported this morning (Friday) in the Wall Street Journal. Alongside diplomatic efforts, the US military is preparing for the possibility of another military confrontation with Tehran and drawing up strike plans, according to sources familiar with the planning. Two US aircraft carrier strike groups are currently in the Middle East, and a third is making its way to the region from the Pacific Ocean. The United States is moving an additional amphibious assault ship carrying Marine forces to the Middle East, and the US military has relocated some of its troops from bases in the area to reduce the risk of harm in case of escalation. The preparations come amid threats from Iran and the Houthis against US allies in the Gulf. The Houthis have attacked targets in Saudi Arabia, and the US State Department has ordered non-essential government employees and their families to leave the kingdom. Sources in the region said they are taking the possibility of renewed escalation seriously, in light of US President Donald Trump's threats and Iran's refusal to comply with American demands. No diplomatic breakthrough has been reported at this stage.