The Pentagon is preparing for a weeks-long ground operation in Iran, though it remains uncertain if President Donald Trump will ultimately approve the deployment. According to BBC, citing The Washington Post, this plan is not a full-scale invasion or occupation, but rather a series of "raids" or lightning strikes involving Special Operations Forces and regular infantry.

Current Military Readiness

• Troop Presence: Over 4,000 U.S. Marines are currently on ships heading toward the Gulf.

• Paratroopers: The 82nd Airborne Division is on standby, with discussions ongoing regarding additional deployments.

• Casualties to Date: Since the conflict began on February 28, 13 U.S. soldiers have been killed and nearly 300 have been injured.

Strategic Target: Kharg Island

The primary target is reportedly Kharg Island near the Strait of Hormuz. This is a critical location, as Iran exports nearly 90% of its crude oil through this island. The goal is to ensure international shipping remains uninterrupted in the Strait.

Risks and Duration

Officials warn that this ground phase could be a "new stage of war," potentially more dangerous for U.S. troops than the initial conflict due to Iranian drones, missiles, and intense resistance. Estimates for the operation's duration range from a few weeks to several months.

White House Position

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that the Defense Department’s job is to prepare all possible options so the Commander-in-Chief can make a quick decision, but emphasized that a final decision on a ground strike has not yet been made by the President.