The US Navy aircraft carrier USS George Washington is preparing for possible involvement in a new military operation against Iran, according to The Wall Street Journal.

Citing sources familiar with the preparations, the newspaper reported that American warships stationed in the Middle East are being placed on alert amid the possibility of another escalation. Any renewed strikes on Iranian territory would depend on US President Donald Trump, who could authorize further military action.

Preparations are already underway aboard the George Washington. The aircraft carrier has received a substantial shipment of munitions, including long-range anti-tank missiles and aerial bombs designed to strike ground targets.

Captain Nicholas DeLeo, commander of the USS George Washington, said the crew maintains constant operational readiness. He explained that personnel remain alert to developments around them and are prepared to respond either immediately or preemptively.

Earlier, The Wall Street Journal reported that the United States could further expand its naval presence in the Middle East. If the George Washington remains in the region until the arrival of the USS Theodore Roosevelt, three American aircraft carrier strike groups would be deployed there simultaneously for the first time since April.

Under that scenario, the total number of US military personnel stationed in the Middle East would exceed 60,000.