President Donald J. Trump has announced a significant U.S. naval buildup headed toward Iran, saying a “massive armada” led by the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln is en route to the Middle East and urging Tehran to negotiate a deal that eliminates any path to nuclear weapons. Trump said the fleet is larger than previous deployments, moving “quickly, with great power, enthusiasm, and purpose” and ready to act if necessary to defend American interests and compel serious talks.

The deployment centers on the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group, which has arrived in the U.S. Central Command area of operations alongside guided‑missile destroyers and other naval assets. Officials say this enhanced presence is intended to promote regional security and deter aggression from Iran and its proxies amid heightened tensions over Tehran’s nuclear program, support for militant groups, and threats to U.S. partners like Israel.

Trump’s message to Tehran was direct and uncompromising. He urged Iran to “come to the table” for a fair deal ensuring “NO NUCLEAR WEAPONS,” warning that “time is running out” and stressing that the United States is prepared to act with speed and force if diplomacy fails. The president referenced past operations targeting Iranian nuclear facilities and suggested that future action could be even more decisive if Iran refuses negotiations.

The announcement comes amid broader regional tensions as the U.S. conducts readiness exercises and bolsters its military posture in the Middle East, including air and naval power demonstrations. Pentagon officials have framed the movements as deterrence and defense of freedom of navigation, while Iranian officials and proxies have criticized the buildup and warned of firm retaliation if U.S. forces strike.