PARIS, France — A US naval strike group led by an aircraft carrier has deployed to Middle Eastern waters, the United States said Monday, as Tehran warned it was ready to hit back at any American attack launched in response to a crackdown on anti-government protests.

Iran's president on Tuesday warned US "threats" against the Islamic republic would only cause instability, as a US naval strike group led by an aircraft carrier took up position in Middle Eastern waters.

Israel’s latest intake of three F-35I “Adir” stealth fighters is more than a routine delivery slot on a long procurement schedule. It is a pointed signal to Iran and its regional partners that Israel is deepening its qualitative edge in the skies just as tensions and proxy clashes intensify.

Iran and its militia allies say they will respond aggressively in the region if attacked. A U.S. aircraft carrier and warships are approaching the region.

A US military strike to support Iran’s protesters would need to be very different from Trump’s operation to target the country’s nuclear facilities.