USS Nimitz is expected to stay outside the Arabian Sea
US reverses decision to send aircraft carrier back to homeport
Acting US Defense Secretary orders USS Nimitz to halt its routine redeployment due to recent threats issued by Iranian leaders against Trump, other US government officials.
Monday 04/01/2021
USS Nimitz is expected to stay outside the Arabian Sea
WASHINGTON - Acting US Defense Secretary Christopher Miller said on Sunday he was reversing his decision to send the aircraft carrier Nimitz back to its homeport.
"Due to the recent threats issued by Iranian leaders against President Trump and other US government officials, I have ordered the USS Nimitz to halt its routine redeployment," Miller said.
A US official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said the carrier was expected to stay outside the Arabian Sea.
The official said the Pentagon's move appeared to be more precautionary than a response to specific new intelligence.
The United States blames Iran-backed militias for regular rocket attacks on US facilities in Iraq. No known Iran-backed groups have claimed responsibility.
The US military flew two nuclear-capable B-52 bombers to the Middle East in a message of deterrence to Iran last week, but the bombers have since left the region.
On Saturday evening thousands of mourners gathered on the highway that leads to Baghdad airport in a simulated funeral procession in tribute to Soleimani and Muhandis.