CBS: Navy SEALs and US Rangers Mass in the Middle East
CBS News reports a major deployment of elite U.S. units, including Navy SEALs and the 82nd Airborne, to provide "additional military options" against Tehran. With Israel opting out of a ground war, the U.S. prepares for potential solo action.
Hundreds of U.S. special operations forces, including Navy SEALs and Army Rangers, have been deployed across the Middle East, CBS News reported Monday, joining thousands of Marines and airborne units already in the region.
The deployment is intended to give President Trump additional military options as the conflict with Iran enters its fifth week, according to U.S. officials cited in the report. It comes amid heightened tensions following Trump’s latest ultimatum to Tehran, in which he warned that failure to reach a quick agreement and immediately reopen the Strait of Hormuz could result in the complete destruction of Iran’s power plants, oil wells, Kharg Island export terminal, and possibly its desalination facilities.
The special operations troops are not yet assigned to specific missions, but their presence alongside Marines and elements of the 82nd Airborne Division signals preparations for a wide range of potential escalations, including possible ground operations or strikes on critical Iranian infrastructure.
The move follows weeks of U.S. and Israeli airstrikes under Operation Epic Fury that have already severely damaged Iran’s navy and air force, according to statements from the Trump administration.
Israeli media reported earlier Monday that the IDF will not participate in any U.S. ground operation inside Iran, meaning any such mission would be conducted by American forces alone.