WP: Pentagon preparing plans for US ground operations in Iran

The Pentagon is considering the possibility of conducting ground operations on Iranian territory that could last for several weeks and mark a new phase of the conflict, The Washington Post (WP) reports.

“As thousands of American soldiers and Marines arrive in the Middle East for what could become a dangerous new phase of the war should President Donald Trump choose to escalate,” the newspaper’s sources said.

The plans do not involve a full-scale invasion; instead, they envision raids by special forces and conventional troops. Potential targets include the seizure of Khark Island and the destruction of weaponry in coastal areas near the Strait of Hormuz. According to one source, these objectives could take “a couple of months” to accomplish.

The publication emphasises that it remains unclear whether the president will approve any of the Pentagon’s plans. If carried out, U.S. forces would face various threats, including missile and drone strikes.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, commenting on the report, said: “It’s the job of the Pentagon to make preparations in order to give the Commander in Chief maximum optionality. It does not mean the President has made a decision.”

By Vugar Khalilov