Pentagon Prepares for Possible U.S. Ground Troops in Iran

Pentagon officials have advanced detailed plans for deploying U.S. ground forces into Iran, multiple sources told CBS News. Senior military commanders have requested preparations as President Trump weighs options in the ongoing U.S.-Israel-led conflict.

"No, I'm not putting troops anywhere," Trump said in the Oval Office, then added: "If I were, I certainly wouldn't tell you."

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that Pentagon preparations ensure optionality but do not indicate a presidential decision. The U.S. is positioning elements of the 82nd Airborne Division and Marine Expeditionary Units in the Middle East.

Two thousand two hundred Marines and three warships departed California earlier this week. The move signals expanded military readiness, though no deployment order has been issued.