Amid growing tensions between Washington and Tehran, a US aircraft carrier strike group led by the USS Abraham Lincoln has reportedly moved closer to Iran, despite the United Arab Emirates' public refusal to permit the use of its airspace, land, or territorial waters for any military operations against Iran.

According to Reuters, Hezbollah's commander, Naim Qassem, stated that his organisation was worried about Washington's threats against Iran. In a televised speech, Qassem declared, "We are determined to defend ourselves." He added that Hezbollah would decide whether to get in later, but emphasised, "But we are not neutral."

The US military build-up coincides with reports that Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei moved into a special underground shelter in Tehran out of fear of a possible US attack. According to sources cited by Iran International, his third son, Masoud Khamenei, has taken over day-to-day management of his office.

The US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency said it had confirmed nearly 6,000 deaths in a widespread crackdown on protests that started in late December and got more intense starting on January 8, but it warned that the true number could be much higher. Meanwhile, Iran continues to experience domestic unrest.

Five major developments regarding tensions between the US and Iran
1. US warships near Iran: As tensions between Washington and Tehran rise, a US aircraft carrier strike group headed by the USS Abraham Lincoln has moved closer to Iran, heightening concerns of a potential US-led military assault.
2. UAE distances itself from any attack: Stressing communication, de-escalation, and respect for sovereignty, the United Arab Emirates has said that it will not permit its airspace, land, or territorial waters to be used for military operations against Iran and will not offer logistical support.

3. Khamenei "hiding" underground: According to Iran International, citing sources, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has moved to a special underground shelter in Tehran due to concerns about a possible US strike. His son Masoud Khamenei is reportedly in charge of running his office on a daily basis.

4. Hezbollah worried: According to Reuters, Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem stated that the Iran-aligned organisation is worried about Washington's threats against Iran and warned that it is "targeted by potential aggression." He added that the group would determine whether to intervene later but emphasised that "we are not neutral."

5. Iran's death toll rises: According to activists, the country's nationwide protest crackdown has killed at least 6,126 people, including protesters, children, and civilians. However, Iran's government has put the death toll much lower at 3,117, figures that cannot be independently verified because of internet restrictions.