The Pentagon is considering deploying around 3,000 troops to support the US-Israeli military campaign against Iran, which may include seizing Kharg Island, Iran's main oil export hub, according to a report from The New York Times.
Senior Pentagon officials may deploy the Army's 82nd Airborne Division's Immediate Response Force, a combat brigade of about 3,000 soldiers capable of deploying paratroopers and equipment anywhere in the world within 18 hours, the Times reported, citing defence officials.
The combat brigade and some elements of the 82nd Airborne's headquarters staff could be used to seize Kharg Island, Iran's key oil export terminal, the report said. However, defence officials cautioned that no orders had been issued by the Pentagon or US Central Command.
The Pentagon declined to comment, citing operational security. President Donald Trump previously announced that Central Command had executed a major bombing raid on Kharg Island, but said he chose not to destroy its oil infrastructure for reasons of decency. However, he warned that if Iran interferes with shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, he would reconsider.
Oil prices have surged amid the conflict, with Brent crude briefly reaching above $119 per barrel before dipping to $99.94 after Trump announced a five-day postponement of strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure. The president said the delay is subject to ongoing talks with Iran.
