After a month of inconclusive fighting in the Middle East, the United States is preparing for possible limited ground operations in Iran. According to reports, the Pentagon is not planning a full-scale invasion but rather targeted missions involving Special Operations forces and regular infantry. At the same time, the United States Central Command has confirmed the arrival of a task force of around 3,500 Marines and sailors in the region. While airstrikes have been temporarily paused and a 15-point peace proposal has been presented, Tehran rejects direct negotiations but continues to communicate through third-party countries.
Internal planning includes the possible seizure of the strategically important Kharg Island as well as attacks on coastal areas near the Strait of Hormuz. The objective of these operations would be to destroy weapons systems capable of threatening commercial and military shipping. US officials estimate that such operations could last from several weeks to a few months. A final decision on whether to implement these plans has not yet been made.
US President Donald Trump had previously stated publicly that he would not deploy ground troops but indicated through his press secretary that military escalation remains possible if the peace proposal is rejected. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that a prolonged conflict is not expected and that the United States can achieve its objectives without deploying ground forces.
Iran responded with sharp warnings, stating that US soldiers entering the country would “leave only in a coffin.” Reports indicate that Washington is also considering deploying up to 10,000 additional troops to the Middle East to reinforce existing units and expand military options. An Iranian official stated that in the event of a US ground operation, allied Houthi forces in Yemen would be activated to resume attacks on shipping in the Red Sea.
Source: WION