U.S. military officials are reportedly planning for a potential ground operation in Iran, including preparations for detaining Iranian soldiers and paramilitary forces.
Pentagon Considers Iranian Soldier Detentions
CBS News reported on Friday, March 20th, citing anonymous sources, that the U.S. military has been holding meetings to discuss organizing potential detentions of Iranian soldiers and paramilitary members.
Sources indicated discussions included where detained Iranians would be located.
Additional Forces to Middle East
Media reports indicate the Pentagon will deploy additional forces to the Middle East, including three warships and a 2,500-soldier Marine Expeditionary Unit.
The USS Boxer, an amphibious assault ship with a Marine Expeditionary Unit, and two accompanying vessels will head to the region, totaling several thousand military personnel, including approximately 2,500 Marines. The ships will also carry F-35 fighter jets, missile systems, and landing craft.
Similar Deployment to Recent Operations
This deployment mirrors a recent troop movement to the Middle East, with forces dispatched from Japan expected to arrive next week.
Trump Comments on Potential Operation
During a meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi at the White House, Donald Trump stated he is not deploying troops to Iran, and if he were, he wouldn’t disclose it.
White House Response
White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated the Pentagon must prepare to provide the commander-in-chief with maximum flexibility, but clarified that the President has not yet made a decision.
Leavitt emphasized that the President does not currently plan to deploy ground troops anywhere.
Netanyahu Calls for Ground Component
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated on Thursday that a ground component is necessary for any operation against Iran, adding that air strikes alone are insufficient.
He acknowledged that while much can be achieved through air power, a ground element is crucial, and various options for this component are being considered.