The Wall Street Journal reported on 26/3, citing unnamed US Department of Defense officials, that this force, likely comprising infantry and armored units, would reinforce the existing presence of approximately 5,000 marines and thousands of service members from the 82nd Airborne Division.
It remains unclear where in the Middle East these forces would be stationed. Reuters, citing sources, indicated that the US military is weighing various options, including landing troops on Iran's coast and islands to unblock the Strait of Hormuz.
A spokesperson for US Central Command (CENTCOM), responsible for US military operations in the Middle East, declined to comment on the information.
"Any announcements regarding military deployments will come from the Department of Defense. As we have stated, President Donald Trump always has all military options at his disposal," said White House Deputy Spokesperson Anna Kelly.
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US paratroopers board an aircraft for deployment to Eastern Europe in 2/2022. Photo: Reuters |
This information comes after President Trump announced he would further postpone plans to attack Iranian power plants by 10 days, while affirming that negotiations between Washington and Tehran are progressing "very well." However, he also threatened to increase pressure on Iran if they fail to reach an agreement with the US.
AP reported on 25/3, citing three informed sources, that the US military is preparing to deploy at least 1,000 service members from the 82nd Airborne Division to the Middle East. This would be the latest addition to US forces in the region, following several naval vessels carrying thousands of marines already heading to the Middle East.
The US 82nd Airborne Division trains to parachute into contested or hostile territories to secure vital areas and airfields.
The New York Times previously quoted former US officers who stated that if the Trump administration decided to seize Kharg Island, considered Iran's "oil lifeline," marines would likely land to secure and quickly repair the airfield and related infrastructure.
This operation would allow military transport aircraft to bring equipment, supplies, and troops to the island. The 82nd Airborne Division could then deploy to the island, allowing the marines to withdraw.
Experts believe that deploying troops to Kharg Island would be a significant escalation, requiring a large-scale, prolonged operation with many inherent risks, potentially leading to serious consequences, even within the United States.
Vu Hoang (According to Wall Street Journal, AFP, Reuters)
