31.03.2026 14:12
The United States has deployed thousands of troops to the Middle East, including the 82nd Airborne Division, as part of its war against Iran. While the Trump administration is considering options, including ground operations, Harg Island and the Strait of Hormuz have emerged as prominent targets. As military buildup in the region increases, over 11,000 targets have been struck so far, hundreds of soldiers have been injured, and casualties have occurred.
The U.S. is increasing its military presence in the Middle East during the ongoing operations against Iran. According to U.S. officials speaking to Reuters, thousands of soldiers from the 82nd Airborne Division, one of the elite units of the U.S. Army, have begun to arrive in the region.
TRUMP EVALUATES NEW STEPS
It has been reported that U.S. President Donald Trump is evaluating the next steps in the Iran war, while the Washington administration is working on a plan to send thousands of additional soldiers to the region since March. It was emphasized that this step keeps the option of operations within Iranian territory on the table if necessary.
MARINES AND SPECIAL FORCES ARE ALSO IN THE REGION
In addition to parachute units based in Fort Bragg, a large number of marines and special forces have also been deployed to the region. It was reported that approximately 2,500 marines reached the Middle East over the weekend. Among the deployed units are elements of the 82nd Airborne Division headquarters, logistics teams, and a brigade combat team.
OPERATION OPTION ON THE TABLE FOR IRAN
While officials did not disclose exactly which country the soldiers were deployed to, it was stated that the shipment was a planned step. It was expressed that the U.S. has not yet made a decision to send ground forces into Iran, but this buildup serves as preparation for possible operations.
HARG ISLAND AND STRAIT OF HORMUZ ARE TARGETS
Among the scenarios in which the soldiers could be used is the option to seize Harg Island, where a large portion of Iran's oil exports are made. Additionally, it was noted that plans to secure the acquisition of enriched uranium in Iran and to ensure the safe passage of tankers in the Strait of Hormuz are also on the table.
TRUMP'S STRONG MESSAGE TO IRAN
Trump announced that the U.S. is conducting negotiations to end the war and called on Iran to keep the Strait of Hormuz open. He reiterated the warning that oil facilities could be targeted otherwise.
LOSSES INCREASING, POLITICAL RISK GROWING
Since February 28, it has been reported that the U.S. has hit more than 11,000 targets in ongoing operations, over 300 soldiers have been injured, and 13 soldiers have lost their lives. Experts point out that deploying ground troops carries serious political risks for Trump.
U.S.-ISRAEL'S ATTACKS ON IRAN
While negotiations continue between Tehran and Washington, Israel and the U.S. launched a military attack on Iran on February 28. Iran responded with attacks on targets it identified in several regional countries, including Qatar, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Bahrain, where U.S. bases are located, in addition to Israel. In the U.S.-Israel attacks, Iranian leader Ali Khamenei and many high-ranking officials were killed.