Washington: The Pentagon is considering deploying up to 10,000 additional ground troops to the Middle East, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal citing defense officials. The move would expand President Donald Trump’s military options as he balances escalation with diplomacy toward Iran.
Meanwhile, 2,200 Marines from the 31st Expeditionary Unit are expected to arrive by Friday, while another 2,500 from the 11th Expeditionary Unit are en route. If approved, the additional force—likely including infantry and armored units—would join roughly 5,000 Marines and paratroopers from the 82nd Airborne Division already positioned in the region. Officials say deployments would likely place troops within striking distance of Iran, including strategic energy sites.
Kharg Island emerges as strategic pressure point
At the same time, Trump has paused planned strikes on Iran’s energy sector for 10 days, extending the deadline to April 6 to allow space for negotiations. Although mediators indicate Iran did not request the extension, Trump insists the delay responds to Tehran’s signals.
Reports suggest U.S. planners are examining options involving Kharg Island, a key oil hub that processes nearly 90% of Iran’s crude exports. Notably, Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz—through which about 20% of global oil flows—has intensified pressure on global markets and heightened strategic stakes.
In parallel, indirect talks continue through intermediaries, including Pakistan. Iran recently allowed several Pakistan-flagged oil tankers to pass through the strait, a move Trump described as a goodwill gesture.
Furthermore, Israel claims it killed a senior Iranian naval commander linked to operations in the strait. As tensions persist, U.S. lawmakers plan hearings on the conflict in mid-April.
