Pentagon Preps Ground Operations; Iran Says It’s Ready
A new report is shedding light on the potential role of U.S. ground forces in the war with Iran. According to the Washington Post, the Pentagon is preparing for the possibility of ground operations that could last for weeks or even months. The planning reportedly focuses on smaller, targeted missions rather than a large-scale invasion. These operations could involve Special Operations forces and U.S. Marines conducting raids on key locations such as Iran’s oil export hub on Kharg Island or sites along the Strait of Hormuz.
Officials told the newspaper that if President Trump approves the plan, the ground campaign would likely be limited in scope. One U.S. official said the operations might last “weeks, not months,” while another estimated they could continue for a couple of months.
The report aligns with earlier indications that the Pentagon may deploy as many as 10,000 additional troops to the region. The first group of those forces was expected to arrive on Saturday. Axios previously reported that military planners were preparing options for what was described as a “final blow,” combining aerial bombing with ground-based raids.
Iranian leaders have responded with strong rhetoric. Parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf warned Sunday that Iran is prepared to confront American troops if they enter the country, saying Iran is ready to retaliate and punish U.S. regional partners.
The growing tensions come as several regional powers, including Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Egypt, were scheduled to meet in Pakistan to discuss ways to bring the conflict to an end.
At home, American public opinion remains largely opposed to sending ground troops. A survey conducted by the Associated Press and the National Opinion Research Center at the University of Chicago found that 62 percent of respondents strongly oppose deploying U.S. ground forces, while only 12 percent support the idea.
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