A US Navy Ohio-class nuclear submarine has been spotted off the coast of Gibraltar, which military experts believe is heading to the Middle East to reinforce a group intended for new large-scale strikes against Iran.

The submarine transiting the Strait of Gibraltar is one of four converted SSGN-class submarines capable of carrying up to 154 Tomahawk cruise missiles. Israeli military sources suggest it will not remain in the Mediterranean but will proceed to the US Central Command (CENTCOM) region, which includes the Middle East and the Persian Gulf.

In addition to their powerful missile armament, Ohio-class submarines are equipped with specialized equipment for the covert insertion of SEALs, allowing them to be used for special operations. The appearance of such submarines in the Gibraltar area, as emphasized, usually indicates activity related to preparations for operations or the deployment of special forces.

Analysts link these actions to statements by President Donald Trump, who previously promised to "grind Iran into dust" if it did not reach a deal with the United States. It was previously reported that more than 20 American ships have already been deployed to enforce the naval blockade against Iran, diverting dozens of commercial vessels. In response, Iranian military experts claim that Tehran has the potential to deliver a "terrible surprise" to American naval strongholds.