USS Gerald R. Ford Deploys to Middle East Amid Rising Iran Tensions

The world’s largest aircraft carrier, USS Gerald R. Ford, arrived at the US naval base at Souda Bay, Crete, on Monday, February 23, 2026, as Washington strengthens its military presence in the Middle East amid heightened tensions with Iran.¹

Military Buildup and Nuclear Concerns

The deployment of the Gerald R. Ford is part of a larger military buildup in the region, with the US Navy currently maintaining over a dozen warships in the Middle East, including the USS Abraham Lincoln, nine destroyers, and three littoral combat ships.¹ This represents a significant increase in US military assets in the area, a move driven by concerns over Iran’s nuclear program.

President Donald Trump has repeatedly threatened military action against Iran if it does not agree to a new nuclear deal.¹ Western nations fear that Iran’s nuclear ambitions are aimed at developing atomic weapons, a claim Iran denies, maintaining its program is for peaceful purposes.¹

Recent History of US-Iran Conflict

The US had two aircraft carriers deployed to the Middle East in June 2025, during Israel’s 12-day war with Iran, when three Iranian nuclear sites were bombed.¹ This deployment of two carriers simultaneously is considered rare.¹

The current situation follows the Trump administration’s withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran, which had placed restrictions on Iran’s atomic activities in exchange for sanctions relief.¹ Since the US withdrawal, Iran has increased uranium enrichment levels, reaching 60 percent, nearing the 90 percent required for a nuclear bomb.¹

Protests and Diplomatic Efforts

The USS Gerald R. Ford, accompanied by the destroyer USS Mahan, is expected to remain at Souda Bay for four days for refueling.² The deployment occurs as the US and Iran prepare for another round of nuclear talks in Geneva on Thursday, February 26, 2026.²

The arrival of the US aircraft carrier has sparked protests in Greece, with anti-war rallies taking place in Chania, Crete, opposing the docking of the vessel at Souda Bay.³

US Military Presence

US Naval Support Activity Souda Bay is home to approximately 1,000 people, including active duty military, US civilian employees, local national employees, contractors, and family members.¹

The US has signaled its preparedness for war if the nuclear talks fail, while Iran has also indicated it is prepared for conflict.²