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The Trump administration is considering deploying thousands of US troops to reinforce its operations in the Middle East. Preparations are underway for potential next steps against Iran, according to Reuters.
The deployment could give President Donald Trump additional options in expanding US operations, as the conflict with Iran has already entered its third week.
Sources say the options include securing the passage of oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, mainly using air and naval forces. However, securing the strait could also involve placing US forces along the Iranian coast. Another possibility under discussion is deploying ground troops to Iran’s Kharg Island, the hub for 90% of Iran’s oil exports, though officials warn such an operation would be extremely risky due to Iran’s missile and drone capabilities.
Additionally, the administration has considered stationing US troops to protect Iran’s stockpiles of highly enriched uranium, though sources stress that the deployment of ground forces in Iran is not inevitable. Experts note that securing uranium stockpiles would be extremely difficult, even for US special operations forces.
A White House official said a decision on sending ground troops has not yet been made, but Trump “wisely leaves all options open.”
The official emphasized that the president’s objectives under Operation Epic Fury include:
- Destroying Iran’s ballistic missile capabilities,
- Neutralizing the Iranian navy,
- Preventing Iran’s proxy forces from destabilizing the region,
- Ensuring Iran never acquires nuclear weapons.
Peace or continued war
Recently, Trump has repeatedly stated that the US has “defeated” Iran but not completely. Based on his statements, the US is not yet ready to negotiate an end to the conflict, as the terms are still deemed insufficient. He indicated that the war will continue for now, but that Washington may end it in the near future.
Meanwhile, The Washington Post reports that the Pentagon has requested $200 billion for the war against Iran.
