Pentagon preparing for weeks of ground operations in Iran --report
According to a Washington Post report citing US officials, the Pentagon is preparing for weeks of ground operations in Iran, indicating a significant escalation of military engagement in the region.
According to a Washington Post report published on March 28-29, 2026, the Pentagon is preparing plans for potential weeks-long ground operations in Iran, though these would not constitute a full-scale invasion. The plans involve special operations forces and conventional infantry conducting targeted raids on specific locations, including Kharg Island (Iran's key oil export terminal), Larak Island, Abu Musa, and possibly nuclear facilities. These operations are designed as limited-duration missions to destroy weapons, secure strategic areas, or capture personnel, with durations ranging from weeks to a couple of months but without occupying territory. The preparations come amid an ongoing U.S.-Israel military campaign against Iran that began on February 28, 2026, which has involved strikes on major Iranian cities including Tehran and resulted in the deaths of key leaders like Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Thousands of U.S. troops have been deployed to the Middle East, including a 3,500-Marine amphibious task force led by USS Tripoli, with the 82nd Airborne Division expected to arrive next. This brings the total U.S. forces in the region to over 50,000 personnel. The military buildup positions forces for short-duration, high-risk missions. However, no approval has been given by President Donald Trump for these operations, with White House officials describing the plans as "theoretical" options that provide "maximum flexibility" without indicating a final decision. Officials emphasize that these are contingency plans for escalation if diplomacy fails, particularly concerning control of the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
The conflict context involves escalating tensions following U.S. and Israeli strikes justified by Iranian missile and nuclear threats. Iran has retaliated against U.S. bases and Israel, with recent Israeli strikes targeting Iranian air defenses, missiles, and nuclear sites. U.S. leaders have described the situation as nearing the "final stages" of the conflict. The risks of such ground operations are significant, including exposure to Iranian drones, missiles, and improvised explosives, with potential for heavy U.S. casualties. Recent U.S. casualties from Iranian attacks have reportedly reached 13 killed and over 300 wounded.
Multiple international outlets including The Jerusalem Post, Fox News, The Telegraph, TASS, and Xinhua have corroborated the Washington Post's reporting based on anonymous U.S. officials. However, there has been no official Pentagon confirmation beyond readiness statements. As of March 29, 2026, major Philippine news sources including GMA, ABS-CBN, Inquirer, and Philstar have not yet reported on this development, suggesting either recency of the information or different editorial priorities. The situation remains fluid with no final decision made on implementing these ground operation plans.
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