WASHINGTON – The Pentagon is sending an aircraft carrier from the Caribbean to the Middle East, two U.S. officials told Reuters on Friday, Feb. 13, a move that would put two carriers in the region as tensions soar between the United States and Iran.

The United States Navy's newest and most capable nuclear-powered aircraft carrier won't be returning to Norfolk, Virginia, despite spending more than 230 days at sea

The Pentagon is sending a second aircraft carrier group – the USS Gerald Ford – to the Middle East, according to a senior administration official and a source familiar with the matter, a move that puts pressure on Iran even as President Donald Trump has said talks with Tehran will continue.

The USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier was ordered to the Middle East as President Donald Trump weighs military action against Iran amid rising regional tensions.

The USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier and its escort ships are expected to head to the Middle East, three U.S. officials told CBS News, adding a second aircraft carrier to the region as U.S.-Iran tensions simmer.

The U.S. Navy is deploying the Norfolk-based USS Gerald R. Ford to the Middle East amid Iran nuclear tensions, joining another carrier.