The US Department of Defense is preparing for several weeks of limited ground operations in Iran. Potential plans include attacks on Kharg Island and coastal areas near the Strait of Hormuz. The operations are intended to remain below the threshold of a full-scale invasion and could involve both special operations forces and conventional infantry. US troops would face risks from Iranian drones, missiles, ground fire, and improvised explosive devices. A final decision on whether to proceed with these plans has not yet been made by President Donald Trump.
As the war enters its fifth week, the US administration has deployed additional forces to the Middle East. Alongside US Marines, preparations are underway to send thousands of troops from the 82nd Airborne Division. According to US Central Command, about 3,500 additional soldiers arrived in the region aboard the USS Tripoli. The forces are part of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and were deployed along with transport aircraft, strike fighters, and amphibious and tactical assets.
In recent weeks, discussions within the US government have also included the possible seizure of the strategically important Kharg Island, a key hub for Iranian oil exports. Additional strikes on coastal areas are being considered to locate and destroy weapons capable of targeting commercial and military shipping. The duration of potential operations is estimated to range from several weeks to a few months.
At the same time, Pakistan is attempting to mediate between Washington and Tehran. Talks involving the foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Egypt are taking place as part of these efforts.
Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf stated that the opposing side publicly signals willingness for negotiations while secretly planning a ground attack. He said Iranian forces are prepared to confront US troops and pointed to missiles already in position. He had previously warned that any attempt to seize an Iranian island would be met with attacks on the critical infrastructure of a regional country involved in such an operation.
An unnamed military official stated that Iran could open a new front in the Red Sea if military action occurs. The Bab al-Mandeb Strait between Yemen and Djibouti could become a focal point, while Iran-backed Houthi forces in Yemen have indicated readiness to take part in operations if required.
Source: Al Jazeera