Pentagon prepares for weeks of ground operations in Iran

Published :

2 hours ago|

US considers limited ground mission targeting Iran’s Kharg Island.
Operation could last up to two months, focused on special forces and infantry units.

US officials say the Pentagon is preparing for a potential ground operation in Iran that could target Kharg Island, a key hub for Iranian oil exports, according to an unnamed source cited by The Washington Post.

The proposed operation, which would not constitute a full-scale invasion, is expected to last up to two months and may involve coordinated attacks by special operations forces and infantry units. One of its objectives would be to seize control of Kharg Island, from which Iran exports 90 percent of its oil and which also provides Tehran the capability to disrupt shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

The mission could also aim to destroy Iranian weapons along the coast, previously claimed by former President Donald Trump to have been eliminated entirely. Sources note that US troops could face significant risks during the operation.

White House spokesperson Caroline Leavitt emphasized that the Pentagon is presenting options to the president, and preparations do not indicate a finalized decision. Trump previously said he has not authorized a ground intervention and would not notify anyone if he chose to act. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also told G7 counterparts that the US does not currently plan any ground action in Iran.

Domestic Concerns

The proposed operation faces opposition among US lawmakers, including some Democrats and Republicans, who fear escalation into a broader war. Recent polls indicate 62 percent of Americans oppose any ground intervention in Iran, while 61 percent generally reject war.

Recent reports suggest that the US is preparing for a large-scale strike if diplomatic efforts fail, potentially allowing Trump to claim a strategic victory while leaving the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to international actors.