Pentagon officials weigh deployment of Airborne Troops for Iran War to capture Kharg Island

Pentagon officials weigh deployment of Airborne Troops for Iran War to capture Kharg Island
U.S. military officials are actively considering the deployment of a combat brigade of 3,000 to 4,000 soldiers from the Army’s elite 82nd Airborne Division directly into Iran to capture Kharg Island, Iran’s main oil export hub.
The forces would come from the division’s Immediate Response Force brigade, capable of deploying anywhere in the world within 18 hours. Senior commanders have submitted specific requests aimed at preparing for this option.
Defense officials described the planning as prudent preparation. Nothing has been ordered by the Pentagon or U.S. Central Command.
Another possibility being considered is an attack by about 2,500 troops from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, which is on its way to the region.
The airfield on Kharg Island was damaged by recent U.S. bombing raids. Former commanders said it was more likely to first bring in Marines, whose combat engineers could quickly …