News blog about the war in the Middle East
The USA is apparently preparing for long ground operations in Iran
Updated March 29, 2026 – 7:07 amReading time: 52 minutes
The Pentagon is probably preparing for a ground operation in Iran. Tehran threatens attacks on universities. All developments in the news blog.
The Iranian capital Tehran was again rocked by violent explosions early on Sunday morning. As an AFP reporter reported, at 7:20 a.m. (local time, 5:50 a.m. CEST) at least two detonations were heard in the north of the city while anti-aircraft defenses were in action. It was initially not clear which locations were hit.
The US Department of Defense is preparing possible ground operations in Iran, according to a report in the Washington Post newspaper. Accordingly, special forces and regular troops could be deployed for weeks if President Donald Trump agrees. A decision has not yet been made.
The plans therefore do not envisage a comprehensive invasion, but rather limited operations. Targeted attacks on military installations on the coast and operations to secure important sea routes are being discussed. The capture of the strategically important oil island of Charg in the Persian Gulf is also considered a possible scenario. The aim of such operations would be to weaken Iran’s military capabilities and build pressure in possible negotiations. Alternatively, US troops could destroy weapons positions along the Strait of Hormuz to prevent attacks on merchant ships. Experts believe mobile, short-term deployments are more likely than permanent stationing.
The risks are considered significant. US soldiers would be exposed to drones, missiles and improvised explosive devices, among other things. In addition, Iranian units could use important infrastructure for defense. According to reports, hundreds of US soldiers have been injured in attacks in recent weeks. There are conflicting signals within the US government. While Trump publicly emphasizes that he does not want to deploy ground troops, the White House points to necessary military planning. Possible deployments are also politically controversial: in surveys, a majority of the US population rejects ground troops in Iran.
Aluminum Bahrain confirms an Iranian attack on its own facilities the day before. Two people were slightly injured, reports Bahrain’s state news agency, citing the company. The extent of the damage is currently being investigated. The Iranian Revolutionary Guards justify the attack on Alba and Emirates Global Aluminum as retaliation for the shelling of two steel mills in their own country.
