The United States has deployed three aircraft carriers to the Middle East for the first time in 23 years, according to the US Central Command (CENTCOM). The arrival of the USS George HW Bush joins the USS Abraham Lincoln and USS Gerald R Ford, bringing a total of 12 accompanying ships, more than 200 aircraft, and 15,000 soldiers to the region. CENTCOM said the last comparable buildup occurred before the 2003 US-led invasion of Iraq. The deployment comes amid a fragile ceasefire involving the US, Israel, and Iran.

Diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran remain stalled, with Iran demanding the lifting of a US naval blockade as a condition for resuming talks. President Donald Trump extended the truce on Wednesday but maintained the blockade, which Iran has called an “act of war.” In response, Iran reblocked the Strait of Hormuz after briefly reopening it. Trump has indicated no urgency to alter the current situation, claiming it weakens Iran’s economy at minimal cost to the US.

CENTCOM confirmed that 34 vessels have been redirected in the region and that the blockade continues. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said Israel is ready to resume military action against Iran if authorized by the US.