The deployment of a US carrier strike group places overwhelming American firepower within striking distance of Iran, but it also raises the risk of confrontation in a region where miscalculation can spiral quickly.

US President Donald Trump claimed on Wednesday that an "armada" was heading toward Iran and that Iran should "make a deal" with the US on its contested nuclear program or face US military attack. "A massive Armada is heading to Iran.

Iran: President Trump renewed his threats against Iran, demanding that it enter nuclear talks or face potential attack by an “armada” of U.S. warships. Mr. Trump has repeatedly threatened Iran over its crackdown on antigovernment protests but his social media post on Wednesday did not mention the demonstrations.