Tensions between the US and Iran teeter on a knife-edge after President Trump deploys the USS Abraham Lincoln to the Indian Ocean, only to float the idea of talks instead of bombs.
On January 30 in Washington, Trump dropped the bombshell: plans to engage Tehran directly. Details remain scarce—who, when, where?—but his words rang clear: ‘Yes, we’re planning discussions. Our big ships are coming, but peace is preferable.’ Pentagon’s Pete Hegseth vowed unwavering support.
Enter Turkey, proposing Iran sweeten the pot with oil concessions to appease Washington and avert war. Turkish voices also offered mediation services amid the high-stakes poker game.
The warship’s positioning signals dual purpose: enabling US attacks or countering Iranian responses. Bolstering this are fresh deployments of Patriot batteries and THAAD interceptors to safeguard American assets.
Behind the scenes, indirect channels buzzed early this month. Omani intermediaries facilitated exchanges between Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff and Iran’s Abbas Araghchi, broaching a summit to halt hostilities.
Trump’s rhetoric has swung wildly—from strike threats to olive branches—keeping foes and friends guessing. With the carrier group advancing, markets brace for volatility. Will oil diplomacy bridge the gulf, or is this mere posturing before a storm?