The United States plans to send approximately 3,000 soldiers from the elite 82nd Airborne Division to the Middle East to support operations against Iran, according to two U.S. officials, with a formal written order expected in the coming hours, reports the Wall Street Journal.
Officials cautioned that no decision has yet been made to deploy ground troops directly into Iran. However, the deployment of the 82nd Division provides multiple strategic options for President Donald Trump.
Meanwhile, Iran has intensified attacks in the region, striking Israel as well as Kuwait, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia with new assaults. Tehran officials expressed concerns that diplomatic efforts to secure a ceasefire could be a trap.
These developments follow President Trump’s recent statement that the U.S. military would delay strikes on Iranian energy facilities and infrastructure for five days after “productive” talks with Tehran. The Iranian Foreign Ministry, however, denied that any direct talks with the U.S. are ongoing.
