US military movements in anticipation of a confrontation with Iran

The newspaper quoted US officials as saying that US forces in the region “could be in much greater danger if the United States were to initiate this round of strikes against Iran.”

The newspaper added that “hundreds of soldiers have been transferred from Al Udeid base in Qatar, and there have also been evacuations at the group of American bases in Bahrain.”

The world's largest aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald Ford, was seen entering the Mediterranean Sea on Friday, amid an intensified military buildup ordered by US President Donald Trump, raising the possibility of a strike on Iran.

Trump announced on Friday that he is “considering” launching a limited strike against Iran if talks between Washington and Tehran do not result in an agreement on its nuclear program.

When asked by a reporter whether he was seriously considering military action if negotiations faltered, Trump added: “The most I can say is that I am looking into it.”

While the United States continues its large military buildup in the Middle East, Iran has taken steps to signal its readiness for war, including fortifying its nuclear sites and rebuilding missile production facilities.

Analysis of satellite images seen by Reuters shows that Tehran has repaired vital missile facilities damaged in last June’s conflict with Israel.

A senior US official stated that Iran will submit a written proposal on how to address US concerns.

Trump called on Tehran Wednesday to join the United States on the “path to peace,” saying: “They cannot have a nuclear weapon, it’s very simple. There can be no peace in the Middle East if they have a nuclear weapon.”

Threats to close the Strait of Hormuz

Tehran has previously threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz if it is attacked, a move that would choke off about a fifth of global oil flows.

Iranian and American negotiators met on Tuesday, and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said they had agreed on “guiding principles.”

However, White House spokeswoman Carolyn Levitt said Wednesday that the two sides remain far apart on some issues.

Iran has shown resistance to making major concessions on its nuclear program, despite insisting that it is for peaceful purposes.

The United States and Israel had previously accused Tehran of seeking to develop a nuclear bomb.

A senior US official stated that Iran will submit a written proposal on how to address US concerns.