US-Iran tensions grow - Tehran’s army on ‘high alert’

Tensions between the U.S. and Iran continue to grow as the Middle Eastern nation places its Islamic Revolutionary Guard on “high alert” due to the rising American military presence in the region.

Iran announced that it is organizing its military as President Donald Trump cautions about possible U.S. military strikes unless Tehran reaches an agreement with Washington regarding its nuclear program.

What is the latest US military move?

The move comes as satellite imagery revealed the USS Carl Vinson and its strike group entered the Indian Ocean through the Malacca Straits on Monday, April 7.

The move could signal an even more aggressive U.S. stance toward Iran.

What does it mean?

The USS Carl Vinson strike group, which includes the USS Princeton and USS Sterett, will join the USS Harry S. Truman and B2 Stealth Bombers stationed at Diego Garcia in the Middle East.

With these aircraft carriers and bombers, the U.S. can conduct air and missile strikes in the region yet remain far enough away to avoid counterattacks.

The new deployments come as Trump is reportedly considering indirect nuclear talks with Iran, along with potential military strikes.

How has Tehran responded?

Iran rejected direct negotiations but said it is open to indirect talks mediated by Oman under the condition the U.S. ease up on its military threats.

Tehran has drawn a redline over any U.S. military action, warning a strike against Iran will have “severe consequences.”

MIDDLE EAST - USS Carl Vinson deployed

How does Russia fit into the picture?

Iran’s ally Russia has condemned U.S. threats against Iran, and an Iranian official told Reuters that Tehran has looked for more support from Moscow.

However, the Middle Eastern nation remains skeptical, recognizing that it heavily depends on the relationship between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Trump.