Pentagon readies for weeks of US ground operations in Iran: Report

Al Jazeera National SecurityNews ReportEN 2 min read 100% complete by Al Jazeera StaffMarch 29, 2026 at 11:15 AM

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Iran attacks Kuwait, Israel after Trump sets deadline for deal

AI Summary

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The Pentagon is reportedly preparing plans for weeks of limited ground operations in Iran, potentially including raids on Kharg Island and coastal sites near the Strait of Hormuz. According to The Washington Post, the plans involve special operations and conventional infantry troops, but fall short of a full-scale invasion. These preparations come as the war in Iran stretches into its fifth week, with the US deploying additional Marines and soldiers to the Middle East, including approximately 3,500 soldiers who recently arrived on the USS Tripoli. Discussions within the administration have considered seizing Kharg Island, a key Iranian oil export hub, and raiding coastal areas to destroy weapons targeting commercial and military shipping. While the Pentagon is preparing options, it remains uncertain whether President Trump will approve any of these plans.

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Key Claims (5)

AI-Extracted

About 3,500 additional soldiers arrived in the Middle East on board the USS Tripoli.

factual — US Central Command (CENTCOM)100% confidence

It’s the job of the Pentagon to make preparations in order to give the Commander in Chief maximum optionality.

quote — White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt100% confidence

Plans could involve raids on Kharg Island and coastal sites near the Strait of Hormuz.

factual — The Washington Post80% confidence

The Pentagon is preparing for weeks of limited ground operations in Iran.

factual — United States officials quoted by The Washington Post newspaper80% confidence

Discussions have touched upon the possible seizure of Kharg Island.

factual — Officials speaking to The Washington Post70% confidence

Claims are automatically extracted and should be independently verified. Attribution indicates the stated source of the claim.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

USS Tripoli 40% Karoline Leavitt 50% US Central Command (CENTCOM) ×250% Middle East ×250% US Marines 50% Donald Trump 60% Strait of Hormuz ×270% Kharg Island ×270% The Washington Post ×470% United States 80% Pentagon ×290% Iran ×590%

Keywords

us ground operations 90% iran 90% pentagon 80% military raids 70% kharg island 60% strait of hormuz 60% middle east 50% us marines 50% military shipping 40%