U.S. weighs deployment of thousands of troops to bolster its campaign against Iran

The Trump administration is actively considering the deployment of thousands of U.S. troops to reinforce its military operations in the Middle East.

“Exclusive-US weighs military reinforcements as Iran war enters possible new phase By Phil Stewart, Idrees Ali, Erin Banco and Gram Slattery WASHINGTON, March 18 (Reuters) - President Donald Trump's administration is considering deploying thousands of U”

AL-Monitor

The consideration comes as the conflict with Iran enters what officials describe as a possible new phase.

AL-Monitor

Sources familiar with military planning confirm the administration is weighing multiple options for troop deployments.

These deployments would provide President Trump with additional flexibility as he considers expanding U.S. operations beyond current objectives.

The potential deployments come as the Iran conflict well into its third week, with military planning discussions intensifying.

The Strait of Hormuz has emerged as a central strategic focal point in U.S. military deliberations.

Approximately one-fifth of the world's oil supply passes through this narrow waterway between Iran and the Arabian Peninsula.

Pakistan Today

Four sources, including two U.S. officials, have confirmed that securing the Strait could involve deploying U.S. troops to Iran's shoreline.

The strategic importance of the Hormuz Strait underscores the energy dimension of the confrontation.

Military experts suggest that controlling this chokepoint could be a primary objective if operations expand beyond current targets.

Kharg Island has become another key strategic consideration for potential U.S. military operations.

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The island serves as Iran's primary oil export facility handling 90% of the country's oil exports.

Three people familiar with the matter and three U.S. officials have confirmed discussions about sending ground forces to the island.

The island was already targeted in U.S. strikes on March 13, with Trump threatening to strike its critical oil infrastructure.

Military experts have characterized such an operation as very risky, given Iran's demonstrated ability to reach the island with missiles and drones.

The potential deployment of U.S. ground troops poses significant political risks for President Trump.

Trump campaigned on avoiding new Middle East conflicts, creating domestic political challenges.

AL-Monitor

Sources indicate low public support for the Iran campaign weighs on decision-making.

A White House official acknowledged no decision has been made but emphasized Trump keeps all options available.

The official stated Trump remains focused on Operation Epic Fury objectives including destroying Iran's missile capacity and preventing nuclear weapons.

U.S. military planners have considered securing Iran's stocks of highly enriched uranium.

“March 19, 2026 The US is considering military reinforcements as its war with Iran may enter a new phase, with the Strait of Hormuz and Kharg Island remaining key strategic focal points”

Pakistan Today

One person familiar with the matter confirmed discussions about deploying U.S. forces to secure nuclear materials.

Pakistan Today

Sources did not believe a deployment of ground forces anywhere in Iran was imminent.

Military experts characterize securing uranium stockpiles as highly complex and risky, even for special operations forces.

This potential mission adds another dimension to the conflict, raising concerns about broader regional implications.

Current assessments indicate no final decisions have been made regarding ground force deployments to Iranian territory.

Military experts emphasize significant risks associated with any ground operations in Iran.

The Pentagon has declined to comment on the ongoing deliberations.

The Trump administration is carefully weighing strategic benefits against political and military risks.

Regional and global stakeholders are closely monitoring developments due to potential impacts on energy markets and geopolitical stability.