The United States is weighing sending up to 10,000 extra troops to the Middle East, US media reported Friday, as speculation grows that Washington may be preparing a ground operation in Iran. The Wall Street Journal reported that the move would aim to provide Trump with "more military options" in the Middle East, engulfed by war since US-Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28. The troops would join thousands of paratroopers and Marines who have already been ordered to the region. Trump has repeatedly said he does not plan to send ground troops into combat with Iran. "It is unclear where precisely forces will go in the Middle East, but they will likely be within striking distance of Iran and Kharg Island, a crucial oil export hub off Iran's coast," the Journal said.

Source: The Standard March 27, 2026 23:44 UTC