[CCIP]

I think you could also interpret it a different way, and say that the US moves right now are an attempt to deter Iran and Israel from making any sudden movements. With a presence in the gulf and boots on the ground in Israel, both of those sides may be less inclined to go at each other. I think that's a much smarter move than ignoring the situation and pretending that everything is alright and no troops need to be anywhere. And if Israel is getting an itchy finger, there's no better medicine for it than some material reassurance of its security.

The reality is also that while Iran 'believes' a lot of things, they're not actually that stupid and are not in any way above or beneath realpolitik and gunboat diplomacy. They're getting another message here.