US weighs Iran ground raids as war enters fifth week

The plans reportedly involve both special operations forces and conventional infantry. However, it remains unclear whether Donald Trump will approve such actions.

Officials emphasized that any ground mission would fall short of a full-scale invasion.

Discussions within the administration include the possible seizure of Kharg Island—home to Iran’s largest oil export terminal—and targeted raids along the Strait of Hormuz.

These operations aim to locate and destroy weapons capable of threatening commercial and military shipping, especially as Iran has effectively disrupted traffic through the vital waterway since the conflict began.

Officials cited in the report suggested the operations could last from several weeks to a couple of months.

A former senior defense official said the plans are detailed and have already been extensively war-gamed.

According to the official, capturing Iranian territory could embarrass the regime and provide leverage in future negotiations.

However, the greater challenge would be holding such territory. “Seizing it is not difficult,” the official noted, “but protecting forces stationed there is far more complex.”

Kharg Island, which accounts for roughly 90% of Iran’s crude oil exports, has already been targeted in recent US airstrikes, with Trump previously describing it as a “crown jewel” of Iran’s economy.

Despite signaling a possible de-escalation, Trump has warned Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global oil and gas shipments.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt reiterated that no final decision has been made, stating that military planning is intended to provide the president with strategic options. She also warned that the US is prepared to escalate further if Iran refuses a deal.

Meanwhile, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington believes it can achieve its objectives without deploying ground troops.

In a parallel development, the US has significantly expanded its military presence in the region. Around 3,500 Marines and sailors recently arrived aboard the USS Tripoli, contributing to what is now the largest American military buildup in the Middle East in over 20 years. The deployment includes aircraft, helicopters, and amphibious assault capabilities.