Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Pentagon Plans Possible Ground Operations in Iran

3/29/2026

49 10 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Pentagon is preparing for potential ground operations in Iran that could last weeks but stop short of invasion.
U.S. officials consider raids by infantry and Special Operations forces, focused on Kharg Island.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio says ground troops may not be necessary to achieve objectives.
U.S. President Donald Trump has postponed attacks on Iran's power grid amid negotiations.

History

Historical Context

The Iran Hostage Crisis began on November 4, 1979, when 66 Americans were taken hostage at the U.S. Embassy in Tehran by the Muslim Student Followers of the Imam's Line, demanding the extradition of the exiled Shah. The crisis lasted 444 days, ending with the Algiers Accords on January 20, 1981, and significantly deteriorated U.S.-Iran relations, influencing future diplomatic and military interactions in the region.

1 of 2

Story summary

The Pentagon is preparing for potential ground operations in Iran that could last weeks but stop short of invasion.
U.S. officials consider raids by infantry and Special Operations forces, focused on Kharg Island.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio says ground troops may not be necessary to achieve objectives.
U.S. President Donald Trump has postponed attacks on Iran's power grid amid negotiations.

1 / 2