Iran has issued a warning of retaliation in response to potential US plans for a ground invasion. President Donald Trump is reportedly considering a risky military operation to seize uranium from Tehran, with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit already in the Middle East.
The proposed operation involves extracting around 1,000 pounds of uranium from Iran, a move described as complex and dangerous by US officials. Trump is deliberating on the decision, weighing the risks to American troops against the objective of preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.
If approved, the operation could entail elite special forces securing nuclear sites amidst Iranian missile and drone threats. Retired Gen. Joseph Votel emphasized the complexity of the mission, stating that it would not be a swift operation.
The Pentagon is also preparing for a potential extended ground campaign that could expose US personnel to various threats, including drones, missiles, and improvised explosives. Discussions have included the possibility of deploying an additional 10,000 ground troops to the region for increased operational flexibility.
Diplomatic efforts are concurrently ongoing, with talks hosted by Pakistan involving foreign ministers from Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Egypt to de-escalate tensions and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. However, both the US and Iran have not participated in these negotiations, and progress remains uncertain.
The escalating situation has led to a surge in oil prices, surpassing $100 a barrel due to concerns about supply disruptions, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route.
