Thousands of United States Army paratroopers have arrived in the Middle East as military preparations in the region intensify. Officials said no decision has been made to deploy troops into Iran, but the additional forces are intended to expand operational capacity should future action be required.

One potential mission under discussion involves seizing Kharg Island, which handles about 90 percent of Iran's oil exports. Earlier conversations within the Trump administration reportedly considered such an operation, though it would carry significant risks.

Kharg Island is within range of Iranian missiles and drones, making any attempt to capture it highly vulnerable to counterattack. The troop buildup signals heightened readiness as tensions continue, even as no formal order for direct engagement has been issued.