Washington, United States. Thousands of soldiers from the US Army’s 82nd Airborne Division have begun arriving in the Middle East as President Donald Trump weighs next steps in the war against Iran, two US officials told Reuters. Military planners are drawing up options that could include seizing Iran’s main oil export hub.
US reinforcements and deployment details
The paratroopers, based at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, are joining an American military build-up that includes about 2,500 Marines who arrived over the weekend, along with additional sailors and Special Operations forces deployed in recent weeks. The latest contingent includes elements of the 82nd Airborne Division headquarters, logistics and support units, and one brigade combat team.
The officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, did not disclose specific deployment locations. One source said no decision has been made to send troops into Iran, and described the reinforcements as intended to build capacity for potential future operations across the region.
Options discussed by military planners
Military planners have discussed several possible uses for the additional forces, including an attempt to seize Kharg Island, described as the hub for 90% of Iran’s oil exports. The officials said such an operation would be highly risky given Iran’s ability to target the island with missiles and drones.
Separate internal discussions have covered deploying ground forces inside Iran to extract highly enriched uranium from deep underground facilities, a mission that could require US troops to operate inside the country for extended periods.
A third option involves positioning troops along Iran’s shoreline to help secure safe passage for oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, a mission described as relying primarily on air and naval power but potentially requiring a ground presence.
Trump comments and political risks
Trump said on Monday the United States was in talks with what he described as a “more reasonable regime” in Tehran, while repeating a warning that Iran must open the strait or face strikes on its oil wells and power plants.
The officials said any ground deployment, even a limited one, carries significant political risk for Trump, citing low domestic public support for the Iran campaign and his pre-election pledges to keep the US out of new Middle East conflicts.
Operation Epic Fury figures
Since operations began on 28 February, the United States has struck more than 11,000 targets under what it has designated Operation Epic Fury. More than 300 US troops have been wounded and 13 service members killed.
What do you think the United States’ next move in the war against Iran should be?