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KRETA, KOMPAS.com – The world’s largest aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R. Ford, departed a naval base in Crete, Greece, on Thursday, February 26, 2026. The deployment comes as the United States increases its military presence in the Mediterranean region amid heightened tensions with Iran.
The arrival of the U.S. Warship coincides with the resumption of indirect talks between Washington and Tehran concerning Iran’s nuclear program.
Baca juga: Jarang Terjadi, 2 Kapal Induk AS Akan Duet Serang Iran
Tinggalkan pangkalan di Kreta
According to a photographer with AFP, the USS Gerald R. Ford set sail from the U.S. Naval Support Activity Souda Bay on the island of Crete on Thursday. The carrier had been docked at the base since Monday.
The U.S. Embassy in Athens declined to comment on the carrier’s presence, referring questions to the Pentagon in Washington.
The departure of the aircraft carrier aligns with the opening of a modern round of indirect talks between the United States and Iran in Geneva, mediated by the Foreign Minister of Oman. These discussions are focused on Iran’s nuclear program, a long-standing source of tension with Western nations.
Tekanan atas Program Nuklir Iran
Former U.S. President Donald Trump previously ordered strikes against Iran last year and repeatedly threatened Tehran with further military action if it did not agree to a new deal regarding its controversial nuclear program.
Western countries are concerned that the program aims to develop nuclear weapons, allegations Iran has consistently denied.
Baca juga: Iran Beli Rudal Supersonik China, Diklaim Bisa Tenggelamkan Kapal Induk AS
Dua kapal induk di Timur Tengah
In addition to the USS Gerald R. Ford, the United States currently maintains a presence of more than a dozen warships in the Middle East. This fleet includes another aircraft carrier, the USS Abraham Lincoln, nine destroyers, and three combat ships.
The presence of two U.S. Aircraft carriers simultaneously in the Middle East is considered rare. These vessels are capable of carrying dozens of fighter jets and are crewed by thousands of sailors, making them a symbol of American military power projection in the region.
Baca juga: Mesin Perang AS Kepung Iran: 2 Kapal Induk, Puluhan Jet Tempur, Ribuan Personel
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The deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford to the Eastern Mediterranean, following a four-day resupply stop at the NATO naval base in Crete, signals a heightened U.S. Military posture as diplomatic efforts continue. The carrier is expected to reach Israel within 24 hours, according to reports. This development underscores growing regional tensions and the U.S.’s commitment to maintaining a strong military presence in the Middle East.
