Thousands of troops from the U.S. Army’s 82nd Airborne Division have begun arriving in the Middle East, according to U.S. officials, as Donald Trump considers his next moves in the ongoing conflict with Iran.
Earlier reports indicated that the administration was weighing the deployment of additional forces to the region, potentially including operations inside Iranian territory.
The newly deployed paratroopers, based at Fort Bragg in North Carolina, are joining thousands of sailors, Marines, and special operations personnel already stationed there. Over the weekend alone, about 2,500 Marines arrived.
While officials did not disclose the exact locations of the deployments, they noted the buildup was anticipated.
The reinforcements include elements of the 82nd Airborne Division’s headquarters, logistics units, support personnel, and a brigade combat team.
Although no final decision has been made to deploy troops inside Iran, the increased presence is intended to strengthen readiness for possible future operations.
One potential mission under consideration is the capture of Kharg Island, which handles the majority of Iran’s oil exports.
However, such an operation carries significant risks, as the island is within range of Iranian missiles and drones.
There have also been discussions about using ground forces inside Iran to secure highly enriched uranium, though this would involve deeper and potentially prolonged military engagement to access heavily fortified underground sites.
