US weighs limited ground operations in Iran as tensions escalate

The United States is preparing for the possibility of weeks-long ground operations in Iran, with thousands of troops being deployed to the Middle East as part of contingency planning, according to media reports. The plans, still awaiting a decision from Donald Trump, could signal a more dangerous phase of the conflict compared to the initial weeks of fighting.

Officials indicated that any ground mission would likely be limited in scope, involving special operations forces and conventional infantry rather than a full-scale invasion. Potential targets under discussion include Kharg Island, a major Iranian oil export hub, and coastal areas near the Strait of Hormuz to secure shipping routes. However, such operations could expose US troops to threats including drones, missiles, and improvised explosives.

The White House emphasized that planning does not mean a final decision has been made, while Marco Rubio suggested that objectives might still be achieved without deploying ground forces. Earlier, Trump had also expressed reluctance to commit troops to the conflict.

Since fighting began in late February, at least 13 US troops have been killed and more than 300 injured in regional attacks. Public opinion in the United States remains divided, with a majority opposing the deployment of ground troops. Analysts warn that any escalation could increase risks significantly, especially given Iran’s capability to launch drone and missile strikes.

The conflict has intensified since joint US and Israeli strikes on February 28, which reportedly killed over 1,300 people, including Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Iran has since retaliated with attacks targeting multiple countries in the region, causing casualties, infrastructure damage, and disruptions to global markets and air travel.