The Donald Trump administration is considering sending thousands of US troops to expand its military campaign against Iran.
According to Reuters, citing US officials and other sources, the possible deployment would aim to protect oil shipments passing through the Strait of Hormuz, an effort that would mainly rely on air and naval forces.
Since the conflict, US strikes have largely focused on Iran’s naval assets, including ships and submarines.
However, protecting the Strait could also involve sending American troops to Iran’s coast and possibly to Kharg Island, which handles about 90% of the country’s oil exports, sources said.
One official warned that such a move would be highly dangerous, as Iran could easily target the area with missiles and drones.
Since the war began on February 28, at least 13 US troops have been killed and around 200 others injured.
Sources also said officials have discussed sending forces to secure Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium.
Trump has indicated that US objectives may go beyond weakening Iran’s military, potentially including keeping the Strait open for global oil trade and stopping Iran from developing nuclear weapons.
There has been limited support from US allies for joining the conflict.
When the conflict began, Trump said he expected it to last four to five weeks, but acknowledged it could continue much longer. The war is now in its third week.
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