US May Increase Troops in the Middle East to 17,000 Amid Large-Scale Anti-War Protests

On March 28, multiple sources reported that President Trump is evaluating the deployment of over 17,000 ground troops around Iran. While this number is significantly lower than the approximately 150,000 troops at the beginning of the Iraq War in 2003, it is sufficient to conduct limited military operations, including seizing strategic locations, controlling key resources, or implementing regional occupations. Previous reports indicated that the Pentagon is considering an additional deployment of up to 10,000 troops on top of the existing force of about 7,000, which may include infantry, armored units, and logistical support. Analysts believe this move reflects the US’s strategy of maintaining a ‘dual-track approach’ between diplomatic negotiations and military pressure. Meanwhile, opposition within the US is intensifying. The ‘No Kings’ protest movement plans to launch over 3,000 rallies across the country this Saturday to oppose the Trump administration’s policies, covering issues such as anti-immigration measures and military actions against Iran. Organizers claim this could become one of the largest protest days in US history, with significant demonstrations expected in major cities like Washington, Chicago, and San Francisco.