Iran Situation | The U.S. Department of Defense reportedly plans to deploy 10,000 ground troops to the Middle East

The military actions by the United States and Israel against Iran have been ongoing for a month. The Wall Street Journal cites U.S. Defense Department officials familiar with the planning situation as saying that the Pentagon is considering deploying up to 10,000 additional ground troops to the Middle East, aiming to provide more military options for President Trump while he weighs engaging in peace talks with Tehran.

The reports indicate that this force may include infantry and armored vehicles, joining approximately 5,000 Marines and thousands of paratroopers already ordered to be deployed to the region. It is still unclear exactly where these troops will be stationed in the Middle East, but they are likely to be deployed within striking distance of Iran and the crucial oil export hub of Kharg Island near the Iranian coast.

U.S. Military Deploys Unmanned Boats Against Iran, First Confirmation of Combat Use

Additionally, Reuters cites a U.S. Defense Department spokesperson stating that the U.S. military continues to deploy unmanned systems in the Middle East and has deployed unmanned boats manufactured by Black Sea Company (known as the Global Autonomous Reconnaissance Craft, or GARC) for patrol missions in actions against Iran. This is part of the U.S. operation “Epic Fury” targeting Iran. He added that the GARC surface unmanned boats have successfully logged over 450 hours of sailing, covering more than 2,200 nautical miles.

The report notes that these vessels can be used for reconnaissance as well as for suicide attacks, marking the first confirmation from Washington of such vessels being deployed in combat.

Trump Extends Deadline for Iran Negotiations to April 6

Trump previously stated that at the request of the Iranian government, he would extend the deadline for U.S.-Iran negotiations to April 6. The pause on U.S. and Israeli strikes against Iranian energy facilities will be extended until 8 p.m. Eastern Time on April 6. He mentioned that Iran only requested a 7-day extension, but due to the “gift” regarding the Strait of Hormuz, “I gave them 10 days,” which Iran greatly appreciated.

However, The Wall Street Journal cites sources familiar with the U.S.-Iran peace negotiation mediation as saying that Iran did not request the U.S. to pause attacks on its energy facilities, and Tehran has not provided a final response to the U.S. proposed peace plan.