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DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Iran and the United States intensified their military posturing on Thursday, as nuclear negotiations between the two
nations faced uncertainty. Iran conducted military drills in collaboration with Russia, while the United States moved the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier closer to the Mediterranean Sea. The Iranian military exercises and the deployment of the American aircraft carrier highlight escalating tensions between the two countries. Earlier this week, Iran also initiated live-fire drills in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage for global oil trade, emphasizing the precarious situation in the region.
U.S. Military Movements
The presence of additional American warships and aircraft does not necessarily indicate an impending military strike against Iran. However, it provides President Donald Trump with options should he decide to act. Despite setting boundaries regarding Iran's treatment of protesters and mass executions, Trump has resumed discussions with Tehran on nuclear issues that had been interrupted due to the conflict between Iran and Israel in June.On his Truth Social platform, Trump stated, “Should Iran decide not to make a Deal, it may be necessary for the United States to use Diego Garcia, and the Airfield located in Fairford, in order to eradicate a potential attack by a highly unstable and dangerous Regime,” aiming to influence the United Kingdom's negotiations regarding the Chagos Islands.
Iran's Domestic Unrest
In the meantime, Iran is grappling with internal unrest following a crackdown on protests. Mourners have begun holding ceremonies to honor those killed by security forces, 40 days after their deaths. Some of these gatherings have featured anti-government sentiments, despite warnings from authorities.The protests that erupted on December 28 at Tehran’s Grand Bazaar, initially sparked by economic grievances, have since spread nationwide. Tensions escalated on January 8, following calls for demonstrations from Iran’s exiled crown prince, Reza Pahlavi.
Official reports from the Iranian government indicate a death toll of 3,117 from the protests, whereas the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency estimates the number exceeds 7,000, with many more casualties feared.
Iran-Russia Military Collaboration
The military drills conducted on Thursday involved Iranian forces and Russian sailors operating in the Gulf of Oman and the Indian Ocean, according to Iran's state-run IRNA news agency. The exercise aims to enhance operational coordination and facilitate the exchange of military expertise.Although China participated in previous iterations of the “Security Belt” drills, there was no indication of its involvement this time. Recent tracking data also revealed a Russian corvette near a military port in Bandar Abbas, Iran.
Iran issued a warning to pilots in the region regarding potential rocket fire, indicating plans to launch anti-ship missiles during the exercises. Meanwhile, the USS Gerald R. Ford was reported off the coast of Morocco, suggesting it could soon navigate through Gibraltar and position itself in the eastern Mediterranean.
The deployment of the carrier allows American forces to enhance their aerial and missile defense capabilities, potentially safeguarding Israel and Jordan if hostilities with Iran escalate. Similar military assets were previously stationed in the region during the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Mourning Ceremonies and Political Sentiment
The number of mourning ceremonies for individuals killed by security forces has surged, as Iranians observe the traditional 40-day mourning period. Witnesses and social media reports documented memorials at Tehran's Behesht-e Zahra cemetery, where attendees voiced opposition to the Iranian government while singing nationalistic songs.Initially ignited by economic turmoil, the protests gained momentum and have seen a significant rise in anti-government sentiment. The Iranian government’s official death toll stands at 3,117, while external human rights organizations claim the number is significantly higher, underscoring the severity of the unrest.
