The White House and Pentagon are considering deploying at least 10,000 additional combat troops to the Middle East in the coming days, according to senior U.S. Defense Department officials cited by the Wall Street Journal and American news site Axios. The potential decision, if made by Donald Trump, is expected to significantly increase the number of American forces in the region and is seen as an indication that a ground operation against Iran is being seriously considered.
Scenarios for the “final strike” against Iran
The troop reinforcement is being considered while Trump states that negotiations with Tehran to end the war are underway. However, Iranian officials have not yet agreed to a high-level meeting with the U.S. and appear cautious, believing the diplomatic initiative may be a “tactical maneuver.” According to officials, the final decision is expected next week. The Wall Street Journal first reported that reinforcements are being considered, while Axios reported that the Pentagon is developing military scenarios for a “final strike” against Iran, which may include both ground operations and an extensive air campaign. Meanwhile, additional reinforcements are expected in the region, including fighter aircraft squadrons and thousands of troops in the coming days and weeks. One Marine expeditionary unit is expected to arrive within the week, while a second is already in the deployment process.
