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The Pentagon is preparing for several weeks of ground operations in Iran, which could lead to a new and more dangerous phase of the conflict if the President of the United States, Donald Trump, decides to approve the plans under review, U.S. officials reported.
According to The Washington Post, the deployment would not involve a large-scale invasion, but rather targeted operations that would combine special forces and conventional infantry units.
These missions would include swift incursions into Iranian territory, aimed at neutralizing strategic military capabilities, particularly in coastal areas near the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil trade.
Thousands of U.S. soldiers and Marines have been mobilized to the Middle East in recent weeks amid rising tensions with Tehran.
However, the White House insists that no final decision has been made. “It is the Pentagon's responsibility to prepare options for the commander-in-chief. That does not mean the president has made a decision,” stated spokesperson Karoline Leavitt.
Among the objectives evaluated is Kharg Island, Iran's main oil export terminal in the Persian Gulf. Experts warn that an operation of this nature would entail high risks due to Iran's capability to respond with drones, missiles, and ground attacks.
In addition, U.S. forces may encounter improvised explosive devices and direct fire on the ground.
The Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, has insisted that Washington can achieve its goals without the need for a prolonged intervention with ground troops.
However, recent reports indicate that the Pentagon is even considering an additional increase in personnel in the region.
In the last month, at least 13 U.S. military personnel have died in incidents related to the conflict, while over 300 have been injured in attacks attributed to Iran in several countries in the Middle East.
Within the United States, the possibility of a ground operation faces widespread public opposition and political divisions.
While some lawmakers support increasing pressure on Tehran, others warn that an escalation could have unpredictable consequences for both regional security and deployed troops.
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