Kathmandu: The United States has deployed more than 50 fighter jets to the Middle East over the past 24 hours, according to independent flight-tracking data and military aviation monitors. Numerous F-22 Raptor, F-35 Lightning II and F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft have been recorded heading toward the region.
The development comes as the United States and Iran concluded a second round of talks in Geneva on Tuesday, where differences remain over issues related to a potential nuclear agreement.
U.S. Vice President JD Vance said Iran has shown reluctance to accept conditions set by President Donald Trump. In an interview with Fox News, Vance stated that while some aspects of the negotiations were positive, no agreement had been reached on several key issues.
The remarks indicate that discussions over Iran’s nuclear program remain at a critical stage. Trump has previously warned that force could be used if Iran fails to meet U.S. demands.
In addition to fighter jets, several aerial refueling tankers have been observed flying toward the Middle East, suggesting preparations for extended operations.
Meanwhile, a U.S. official told media outlets that the USS Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group has departed the Caribbean, reached the mid-Atlantic, and is heading toward the Middle East. It is expected to arrive within the next four to five days.
According to Associated Press (AP), the Ford is accompanied by three guided-missile destroyers — USS Mahan, USS Bainbridge and USS Winston S. Churchill — an official said on condition of anonymity for security reasons.
Earlier this year, the USS Abraham Lincoln and other major U.S. air and naval assets were also deployed to the region, further strengthening the American military presence in the Middle East.
On Tuesday, Iran temporarily closed parts of the Strait of Hormuz — one of the world’s most critical oil transit routes — during live military exercises. Iranian authorities described the drill as “smart control of the Strait of Hormuz,” following an announcement made Monday.
Iranian news agencies reported that missile tests were conducted in the narrow waters of the Persian Gulf. Citing security and maritime safety reasons, Iranian media said the closure would last several hours.
According to the Associated Press, the exercise aims to test intelligence and operational capabilities. Maritime security firm EOS Risk Group said vessels transiting the area had already been notified via radio broadcasts.
During a similar drill in late January, the United States Central Command issued a strong statement affirming Iran’s right to operate in international airspace and waters, while warning against harassment of U.S. warships or commercial vessels.
