The Pentagon is reportedly preparing contingency plans for potential ground operations in Iran, as thousands of additional U.S. troops arrive in the Middle East.
According to reports, the plans would involve targeted raids by special forces and conventional troops rather than a full-scale invasion, though no final decision has been made.
Donald Trump has yet to approve any such action and has previously downplayed the idea of deploying ground forces. “I’m not putting troops anywhere. If I were, I certainly wouldn’t tell you, but I’m not putting troops,” he told reporters in the Oval Office.
Despite this, around 3,500 additional U.S. personnel have entered the region as part of a deployment led by the USS Tripoli (LHA-7), which carries Marines and assault capabilities. Iranian officials have responded with strong warnings. Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said the country’s forces were prepared for any confrontation.
“[The armed forces]… are waiting for the arrival of American troops on the ground to set them on fire and punish their regional partners forever,” he said. “Our firing continues. Our missiles are in place. Our determination and faith have increased.”
The escalation comes amid broader tensions, including recent threats by Iran to target U.S.-linked institutions in the region following strikes on Iranian infrastructure. Speculation has also focused on Kharg Island in the Persian Gulf as a potential strategic objective, given its role in handling a large share of Iran’s crude oil exports.
However, any ground operation is expected to face significant domestic opposition in the United States. Polling cited in reports suggests a majority of Americans oppose deploying troops on Iranian soil.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said planning does not indicate a final decision. “It’s the job of the Pentagon to make preparations in order to give the Commander in Chief maximum optionality. It does not mean the President has made a decision,” she said.