Amid escalating tensions in relations with Iran, the United States is activating its rapid response forces, sending them to the Persian Gulf. The 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit and parts of the 82nd Airborne Division are being directed to the potential conflict zone, where they will join the 31st Marine Group already present in the region. According to BBC sources, elite special operations units, including Navy SEALs and Army Rangers, are also included in the team. It is expected that the total number of American servicemen in this contingent will exceed eight thousand, with most prepared for ground operations.
Experts highlight three main scenarios in which these forces may be utilized. The first priority is the unblocking of the Strait of Hormuz, through which a significant portion of the world's oil trade passes. To ensure safe passage, American troops may need to capture strategically important islands such as Abu Musa, Greater and Lesser Tomb, as well as Qeshm, which Iran uses as a powerful defensive stronghold.
The second scenario involves the possibility of capturing Hark Island, where 90% of Iran's oil exports are concentrated. Gaining control over this terminal would allow the U.S. to limit Tehran's financial inflows without damaging key infrastructure. Finally, the most complex scenario is considered to be an operation to seize stocks of enriched uranium at facilities in Isfahan and Natanz. Implementing such a plan would require a temporary presence of American special forces on Iranian territory to neutralize security and ensure the safe transport of nuclear materials.
