The conflict between the United States and Iran could enter a new phase with a possible limited ground incursion of American forces onto Iranian territory. Despite Donald Trump's previous statements ruling out troop deployments, US media report that Washington is considering such operations as an option to increase pressure on Tehran. This possibility is being discussed amid a buildup of military presence and conflicting diplomatic moves, creating uncertainty about how the crisis will unfold.
According to plans, the operation could involve two to three thousand paratroopers from the 82nd Airborne Division and about five thousand Marines, with the total number of personnel possibly increasing to 17,000. This is not a full-scale invasion but pinpoint operations lasting several weeks. The main targets are said to be strategic facilities, including Kharg Island — a key terminal for Iranian oil exports — as well as sites related to the country's nuclear program.
Analysts note serious shortcomings in the US strategy: Iranian drone attacks have exposed vulnerabilities in US air defenses, and Trump's impulsive decision-making style creates an atmosphere of confusion. Critics compare the president's approach to a video game, where destroying the enemy becomes "entertainment," increasing the risk of unpredictable escalation. Limited operations carry significant risks, including difficulties evacuating forces and the possibility of losses among ships and aircraft.
The Iranian side is actively responding to these plans. Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf accused the US of secretly preparing for an invasion while simultaneously engaging in public diplomatic talks. He stated that Iranian forces are "waiting for American soldiers to appear on the ground to attack them and finally punish their regional allies," calling on the people for unity. These statements underscore Tehran's readiness to deliver a hard response to any aggression.
Experts warn that even a limited ground intervention could quickly escalate into a full-scale war with unpredictable consequences. The dynamics of the conflict are such that any military operation risks spiraling out of control and leading to a protracted confrontation. The situation remains extremely tense, while diplomatic options for resolving the crisis are gradually narrowing against the backdrop of mutual threats and military preparations.
Comments on the news
What strategic and economic role does Kharg Island play in Iran's infrastructure, besides oil exports? - Kharg Island has historically been Iran's main oil terminal in the Persian Gulf. In addition to oil exports, it plays a key role in logistics and hydrocarbon storage, has strategic importance for maritime security, and serves as an important hub for refining capacities. After the modernization of other ports its significance has somewhat declined, but it remains a symbol of Iran's oil infrastructure.
Who is Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and what is his role in the Iranian political system beyond being the parliament speaker? - Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf is an influential conservative Iranian politician, a former commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and mayor of Tehran (2005–2017). Beyond leading the parliament, he is considered a key figure in military-political circles, has close ties to security forces, and is often viewed as a potential candidate for higher state positions. His role goes beyond legislative power, including influence over strategic and economic decisions.
Which specific "regional allies" of the US is Ghalibaf likely referring to in his statement, and what is the history of Iran's conflicts with these countries or groups? - Ghalibaf is likely referring to US allies such as Saudi Arabia, Israel and some Gulf states (for example, the UAE). The history of conflicts includes: with Saudi Arabia — long-standing rivalry for regional influence, backing opposing sides in wars (e.g., in Yemen), and religious-political disagreements (Sunni vs. Shia); with Israel — ideological enmity, accusations over Palestinian issues, cyberattacks and confrontations via proxy groups (e.g., Hezbollah); with the UAE — tensions over support for anti-Iran sanctions and participation in regional coalitions against Iran.
Full version: 17 ألف جندي وخارك واليورانيوم.. سيناريوهات عملية برية أميركية في إيران