Trump administration weighs ground troop deployment to Iran amid Gulf escalation
The Trump administration is evaluating the deployment of several thousand additional U.S. troops to the Middle East. This move comes as the military prepares potential next steps in its ongoing campaign against Iran, according to U.S. officials familiar with the discussions.
The new deployments would provide President Donald Trump with broader operational options. One primary strategy involves securing the safe passage of tankers through the Strait of Hormuz using enhanced air and naval assets. However, securing this vital corridor may require boots on the ground along the Iranian coastline.
Washington has specifically examined the possibility of deploying ground forces to Iran's Kharg Island. This strategic hub handles approximately 90% of Iran's oil exports. Some officials warned the operation is "extremely high-risk," as Iran could target the island with concentrated missile and drone strikes.
U.S. planners are also discussing options to safeguard Iran's highly enriched uranium stockpiles. While sources indicate a ground incursion is not "imminent," experts warn that such a mission would be complex even for elite special operations units.
A White House official stated that "no final decision on ground troops has been made," but emphasized that the President "keeps all options on the table." The stated goals include neutralizing Iran’s ballistic capabilities, dismantling its fleet, and preventing the regime from acquiring a nuclear weapon.
These deliberations occur as the U.S. military continues its strikes against Iranian naval and defense infrastructure. U.S. Central Command reports over 7,800 strikes since the conflict began on February 28, resulting in the destruction of more than 120 Iranian vessels.
A ground intervention carries significant political risks for President Trump. Public support for the campaign remains low, and the President has repeatedly pledged to avoid new Middle Eastern wars. Despite avoiding a full-scale invasion thus far, 13 U.S. service members have been killed and 200 wounded in the conflict.
The President’s stance on the Strait of Hormuz has fluctuated, shifting from U.S. naval escorts to demanding international contributions. Meanwhile, several nations have proposed a "safe corridor" through the International Maritime Organization to evacuate 20,000 sailors currently trapped in the Gulf.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
