THE Pentagon is reportedly developing plans for a ground operation in Iran, potentially lasting several weeks, sources indicate.
According to the Washington Post, the proposed operations could include strikes on Kharg Island and coastal installations near the Strait of Hormuz, though President Donald Trump has not yet authorised any troop deployments.
AFP, on Sunday, cited officials quoted by the Post emphasising that any ground mission would not constitute a full-scale invasion, but rather limited strikes carried out by special operations forces and conventional infantry units.
An unnamed officer told the newspaper, “This is not last-minute planning,” suggesting that preparations have been underway well in advance.
United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio, speaking on Friday, reiterated that the country “can achieve all objectives without a ground force,” highlighting that military planners are weighing options carefully before committing troops.
The report underscores the complexity of U.S. strategic planning in the region, where air campaigns have already been conducted but additional measures are being considered to secure key objectives. - March 29, 2026
