Thousands of US Elite Troops Arrive, Ground Invasion of Iran Now "Within a Whisker"
Thousands of elite US troops have begun arriving in the Middle East, marking a new escalation as Washington considers advanced military options in the conflict against Iran. This troop buildup comes as the Donald Trump administration weighs various possibilities, including ground operations in Iranian territory.
Two US officials told Reuters, as quoted on Tuesday (31/3/2026), that thousands of soldiers from the US Army’s 82nd Airborne Division have started arriving in the region. This elite unit is known as paratroopers capable of rapid deployment for large-scale combat operations.
Reuters previously reported on 18 March that the Trump administration is considering deploying additional thousands of troops to the Middle East, a step that could expand options to potentially placing forces inside Iranian territory.
The paratroopers based at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, will join thousands of sailors, Marines, and special operations forces previously sent to the area. Over the weekend, around 2,500 Marines also arrived in the Middle East.
The officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, did not specify the exact deployment locations but stated that the move was anticipated. The additional Army troops include elements of the 82nd Airborne Division headquarters, logistical support, and one combat brigade.
One source said no decision has been made to send troops into Iran, but the deployment will enhance capacity for potential future operations in the region.
Military Options Under Consideration
These troops could potentially be used in various conflict scenarios, including the possibility of seizing Kharg Island, the hub for around 90% of Iran’s oil exports. Reuters previously reported that the Trump administration has discussed operations to take over the island.
However, that step is considered high-risk because Iran could reach the area with missiles and drones.
Internal US government discussions also include the possibility of using ground troops in Iran to extract highly enriched uranium. This option could place US forces deeper inside Iranian territory for a longer period to retrieve material located far underground.
Additionally, discussions cover the possibility of placing US troops in Iran to secure safe passage for oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz. That mission would primarily be carried out by air and naval forces but could also involve deploying troops along Iran’s coastline.
Meanwhile, Trump said on Monday that the US is holding talks with a “more reasonable regime” to end the war in Iran, but he again warned Tehran to open the Strait of Hormuz or face the risk of US attacks on its oil fields and power plants.
The use of US ground troops, even for limited missions, is seen as carrying significant political risks for Trump. Public support in America for the Iran campaign is relatively low, while Trump previously promised during the election campaign to avoid new involvements in Middle East conflicts.
Since operations began on 28 February, the United States has launched strikes against more than 11,000 targets. More than 300 US troops have been injured and 13 military members killed in the operation named Operation Epic Fury.