On Wednesday, security vibes were through the roof 🚨 as the US powers up a massive carrier strike group moving from the South China Sea to the Middle East.
Tehran isn't holding back. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) says it's on its highest combat alert ⚡. Majid Mousavi, commander of the IRGC Aerospace Force, notes Iran's missile stockpile has grown since last year's 12-day war with Israel.
As nerves fray, several European countries – including the UK, Poland, Italy and Spain – have urged their residents to leave Iran. The United States and France issued similar travel advisories earlier. Some nations are also pulling military staff from regional bases.
One anonymous US defense official says all signs point to an imminent strike, but adds that unpredictability is part of the administration's playbook. Meanwhile, Qatar confirmed drawdowns at Al Udeid Air Base, and the UK is scaling back personnel at its Qatar air station.
At the White House, President Donald Trump has taken a wait-and-see approach, vowing "very strong action" if Iran harms protesters, and telling Iranians "help is on the way." Two European sources warn US military intervention could come within 24 hours.
Behind the scenes, Iran's leaders have warned US allies – from Saudi Arabia to Turkey – that American bases on their soil would be targeted if Washington attacks. Diplomatic contacts are on hold after Tehran suspended talks between its foreign ministry and US envoys.
With the US maintaining major forces across the region, including CENTCOM's Qatar headquarters and the Navy's Fifth Fleet in Bahrain, the Middle East is bracing for a potential showdown. These developments could reshape global politics and markets in the coming days.
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Iran warns of retaliation as U.S. carrier strike group heads to ME
cgtn.com
