U.S. plans Middle East military exercises as Iran tensions rise

U.S. forces will hold multi-day air exercises in the Middle East as Washington increases its military presence amid strained ties with Iran.

The U.S. military said the drills are intended to test operations under demanding conditions while improving coordination with regional partners.

Air Forces Central said the exercise was designed to “enhance asset and personnel dispersal capability, strengthen regional partnerships and prepare for flexible response execution.”

The announcement came as U.S. President Donald Trump warned that an “armada” was moving toward Iran and said military action remained a possibility, while emphasising that he hoped to avoid escalation.

“We have a lot of ships going that direction, just in case,” Trump said. “I’d rather not see anything happen, but we’re watching them very closely.”

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) said the exercises would be held with the approval of host nations and in close coordination with civil and military aviation authorities, stressing safety, precision and respect for sovereignty. It did not disclose the location, duration or assets involved.

CENTCOM has also confirmed the arrival of a U.S. carrier strike group led by the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln, a deployment U.S. officials described as defensive and aimed at deterrence and regional stability.

Tensions between Washington and Tehran have intensified following Iran’s crackdown on anti-government protests. Trump has warned Tehran against killing protesters and said the United States remains open to talks if Iran understands the terms.

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Iranian leaders have criticised the U.S. military buildup as destabilising. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said Iran was “more than capable” of responding to any aggression and that its armed forces were closely monitoring developments.

Several U.S. allies in the region, including Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, have said they would not allow their airspace to be used for military action against Iran. The UAE has also said it would not provide logistical support for any such operation.

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