President Donald Trump says the United States is deploying a “massive” naval force towards Iran as a precaution, stressing the move is intended as a deterrent rather than a step toward war. The deployment reportedly includes a US aircraft carrier strike group repositioned to the region.

The move comes amid heightened tensions over Iran’s nuclear programme and regional security concerns. While Trump said he prefers diplomacy, analysts say the show of force is meant to signal readiness should talks fail.