Trump Reportedly Preparing Iran Ground Assault

President Donald Trump is reportedly considering a ground assault on Iran in the coming weeks. This comes after Iran disrupted global energy markets by closing the Strait of Hormuz in response to recent US and Israeli aerial attacks.

Pentagon Prepares for Weeks of Potential Operations

The Washington Post reported on Saturday that the Pentagon is preparing for “weeks” of potential ground operations within Iran. These operations would likely fall short of a full-scale invasion.

Potential Targets: Kharg Island and Iranian Weapons Systems

Sources indicate potential operations could involve raids by Special Operations forces and conventional infantry. Possible objectives include seizing Kharg Island, a crucial Iranian oil export hub, or destroying weapons systems that threaten shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

Experts Warn of High Risks and Limited Prospects

Michael Eisenstadt, director of the Military and Security Studies Program at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, cautioned against attempting to take Kharg Island. He stated, “I just wouldn’t want to be in that small place with Iran’s ability to rain down drones and maybe artillery.”

Vulnerability to Drone and Missile Attacks

Ret. Gen. Joseph Votel, former head of US Central Command, echoed these concerns, warning that occupying Kharg Island would leave US troops “very, very vulnerable” to attacks from drones and missiles.

Analysis: Trump Has 'Run Out of Options'

Lawrence Freedman, professor emeritus of war studies at King’s College London, believes President Trump has exhausted viable strategies for achieving a positive outcome. He published an analysis on Sunday stating Trump has “run out of options” for victory.

Regime Remains Intact Despite Attacks

Freedman noted there have been no indications of the Iranian regime collapsing despite ongoing US-Israeli attacks. He suggests Trump “appears to inhabit an alternative reality,” citing increasingly inconsistent and “frankly delusional claims.”

Limited Paths Forward, Potential for a 'Mess'

Freedman suggests Trump’s only remaining option might be to declare victory and withdraw. However, even this would “mean leaving behind a mess in the Gulf” without guaranteeing the re-opening of the Strait of Hormuz.

Success Defined by Political Objectives

Freedman concludes that success in war is measured by achieving political objectives, not simply inflicting damage. He states the objective was regime change, which has not been realized, and the situation has resulted in significant economic disruption and ongoing costs.