Srinagar, Mar 29 : The United States is reportedly considering a series of limited ground operations in Iran as the ongoing Middle East conflict stretches into its fifth week.
The proposed plans, under discussion within the Pentagon, include targeted raids on strategic locations such as Kharg Island and other coastal areas near the Strait of Hormuz. These operations are said to involve both special forces and conventional troops, though a final decision is yet to be taken by US President Donald Trump.
Sources familiar with the developments indicated that the potential actions would remain short of a full-scale invasion, focusing instead on neutralising threats to commercial and military shipping in the region.
Kharg Island, which hosts Iran’s largest oil export terminal, is believed to be a key point of interest in the discussions.
Officials are also examining options to conduct precision operations aimed at dismantling weapon systems allegedly capable of targeting vessels in and around the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.
A former senior defence official was quoted as saying that such scenarios have been extensively studied and are part of long-standing contingency planning. The official noted that while capturing specific locations may not pose significant difficulty, maintaining control and ensuring the safety of deployed forces would present a major operational challenge.
The report further suggested that any limited territorial gains could potentially be used as leverage in future diplomatic negotiations, even as the situation in the region continues to evolve.(KNS)
