The United States is quietly preparing for a possible military operation that could target Iran's nuclear facilities, according to a number of signs. As the deadline for negotiations on a new nuclear deal approaches, strategic force movements and diplomatic rhetoric in the region indicate rising tensions, according to reports coming out of the Persian Gulf and Indian Ocean, where American troops have stepped up their activities.

In recent days, observers have noted the redeployment of several U.S. Air Force B-2 Spirit stealth bombers to Diego Garcia, a remote military base in the Indian Ocean traditionally used to prepare for long-range strike missions. Ten KC-135R Stratotanker tankers and three C-17 transports have arrived with the aircraft, indicating the deployment of a large support infrastructure. In addition, a no-fly zone (NOTAM) has been imposed over Diego Garcia until May 1, adding to speculation that a major operation is underway. At the same time, reconnaissance flights have increased over the region, which analysts say could be part of gathering intelligence ahead of a possible strike.

In parallel, the USS Carl Vinson carrier strike group has left the Western Pacific for the Arabian Sea, where the USS Harry S. Truman is already operating, conducting air operations including strikes on Houthi positions in Yemen. The presence of two aircraft carriers near Iran significantly increases the US’s combat capabilities in the region and has fueled speculation about an impending military scenario. The moves come amid reports that President Donald Trump has sent a stern warning to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. According to US media, Trump has given Tehran a two-month deadline to reach a new nuclear deal, threatening “consequences” if it refuses.

Washington is concerned about Iran’s rapid progress in its nuclear program. Intelligence indicates that the country is on the verge of developing nuclear weapons, forcing the United States to take more decisive action. Military experts believe that attacking Iran’s hardened and dispersed nuclear facilities would require a sophisticated operation using long-range precision strikes. In this context, the B-2 Spirit, capable of carrying powerful bombs to destroy underground bunkers, as well as naval support from aircraft carriers, appear to be key elements of a possible plan.

Tensions around Iran's nuclear program have been growing since early 2025. After the failure of another round of talks in Vienna in February, Tehran announced an increase in uranium enrichment, which provoked a sharp reaction from the West. In March, the United States and its allies tightened sanctions, and the UN Security Council discussed options for increasing pressure on Iran. The current actions of the American military could be both a show of force and a real preparation for a strike if diplomacy finally reaches a dead end. The Pentagon has not yet commented on the movement of forces, but emphasizes its readiness to protect the interests of the United States and its partners in the region.

Iran, for its part, has repeatedly said it will not cave in to pressure and views any military action as a pretext for retaliation. Tehran has already beefed up air defenses around key nuclear sites including Natanz and Fordow, and the Revolutionary Guard Corps has conducted ballistic missile drills. Experts warn that escalation could lead to a wider conflict affecting the entire Middle East. For now, the situation remains in limbo, and further developments will depend on Iran’s response to Trump’s ultimatum.