Pentagon Weighs Ground Raids in Iran as War Escalates
US mulls limited operations near Strait of Hormuz; Trump yet to approve plan
- Pentagon preparing potential ground operations in Iran
- Focus on Kharg Island and Strait of Hormuz coastal sites
- Donald Trump yet to decide on approval
- US deploys 3,500 troops in largest regional buildup in decades
GG News Bureau
Washington, 29th March: The Pentagon is preparing contingency plans for possible ground operations in Iran as the ongoing conflict in West Asia enters its fifth week, according to a report.
The plans reportedly include limited raids by special operations and conventional forces targeting strategic sites such as Kharg Island — a key hub for Iran’s oil exports — and coastal areas near the Strait of Hormuz.
Officials cited in the report said the operations would stop short of a full-scale invasion and could span several weeks, though timelines remain fluid. The objective is believed to include neutralising weapons systems threatening commercial and military shipping routes.
Kharg Island, which accounts for a major share of Iran’s crude exports, has emerged as a key focus, with discussions reportedly including the possibility of its temporary seizure to gain strategic leverage.
However, concerns remain over the challenge of securing any captured territory and protecting deployed personnel in a volatile environment.
The proposed operations are yet to receive approval from US President Donald Trump. The White House has maintained that military planning does not necessarily indicate a final decision.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said preparing options is part of standard protocol, while warning that the US is ready to escalate if Iran does not agree to terms to end the conflict.
Meanwhile, Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated that US objectives could be achieved without deploying ground troops, suggesting internal debate within the administration.
In a parallel development, the US has significantly expanded its military presence in the region. Around 3,500 Marines and sailors have been deployed aboard the USS Tripoli, marking one of the largest American force buildups in the Middle East in over two decades.
The deployment includes advanced aircraft such as F-35 fighter jets, helicopters and amphibious assets, underscoring heightened military preparedness.
The evolving situation has intensified global concerns over energy security and maritime trade, particularly as the Strait of Hormuz remains a critical artery for global oil shipments.
