US navy destroyer docks at Israeli port amid rising Iran tensions

A US Navy destroyer has arrived at Israel’s southern port city of Eilat, according to Israel’s Ynet news website, as tensions continue to rise between the United States and Iran.

Citing Israeli military sources, Ynet reported on Friday that the warship docked at the port on the Gulf of Aqaba, close to Israel’s borders with Egypt and Jordan.

The report said the visit was planned in advance and forms part of routine coordination and cooperation between the US and Israeli armed forces. Neither the US Navy nor the Israeli military immediately commented on the development when contacted.

The docking comes at a time when Washington is increasing its military presence in the Middle East, even as US President Donald Trump has said he is open to holding talks with Iran. Despite this, the US has continued to move additional military assets into the region.

A US defence official told Reuters that operational details could not be shared for security reasons, stressing that the protection of American service members remains the military’s top concern.

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said the armed forces were ready to carry out any decision taken by the president.

Trump has repeatedly warned Iran to return to negotiations over its nuclear programme, saying failure to do so would lead to much tougher action by Washington. Iran, in response, has issued threats of retaliation against the United States, Israel and their allies.

The US president has also claimed that an “armada” is moving towards Iran, though he added that he hoped such force would not ultimately be required.