The United States has strategically positioned numerous military aircraft and assets at bases in and around the Middle East, with President Donald Trump indicating that potential strikes against Iran could commence “within 10 days” if negotiations regarding its nuclear program fail. Both nations are engaged in indirect discussions in Switzerland.
During the inaugural meeting of his Board of Peace organization, Trump mentioned that the U.S. might need to escalate actions if diplomatic talks collapse. To monitor the buildup, the CBC’s visual investigations team utilized flight and maritime data along with satellite imagery.
In naval operations, two of the U.S. navy’s active carrier groups, including the USS Abraham Lincoln and its accompanying destroyers, are currently operating in the Arabian Sea near Oman following their deployment at the end of January. The USS Gerald R. Ford, the world’s largest aircraft carrier, is reportedly en route to the eastern Mediterranean, as confirmed by U.S. media sources and the BBC.
Regarding aerial movements, observations from flight-tracking software revealed multiple U.S. military flights in recent days, showcasing a significant deployment of tanker, transport, and surveillance assets from the continental United States to bases in Europe and the Middle East. Satellite footage has also displayed a notable increase in combat and military aircraft presence at various bases in the region.
Defense analyst Rosemary Kelanic from the think-tank Defence Priorities expressed concerns about the U.S.’ preparations, suggesting that they may signify readiness for a prolonged conflict. She criticized the administration’s approach as lacking caution and due diligence, warning of potential risks. The U.S. had previously conducted strikes against Iran as part of the Twelve-Day War, targeting Iranian nuclear facilities using B-2 bombers.
Recent satellite imagery indicates ongoing repair and reconstruction activities at nuclear and military sites in Iran following previous strikes. While Iran has reported progress in nuclear discussions in Geneva and denies intentions to develop nuclear weapons, the country has also conducted military drills, including missile tests and joint naval operations in the Strait of Hormuz involving Russian forces.
