Pentagon’s plan for ground operations in Iran could derail Pakistan's goal

The Pentagon’s decision to deploy possible ground forces near the Strait of Hormuz could be a spoiler for Pakistan which seeks to be a peacemaker in the Iran conflict and is organizing a meeting of Foreign Ministers involving Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Egypt in Islamabad today and on Tuesday.

The Pentagon is preparing plans for weeks of ground operations in Iran including raids on Kharg Island and coastal sites near the Strait of Hormuz while Pakistan is trying to position itself as a “player” to de-escalate tensions in the region.

Islamabad has passed on messages passed between Iranian and US officials as the conflict drags on. But Islamabad’s efforts may not yield results if a ground invasion by the USA is launched as that would drag the conflict and push the region towards further chaos.


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A US Navy ship carrying 3,500 sailors and Marines has arrived in West Asia, adding to the military presence in the region. The US Central Command said that the USS Tripoli, which carries the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group and the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, have arrived at the location. Tripoli, in addition to the troops, also carries F-35 fighter jets, Ospreys, and other aircraft and was deployed from Japan around two week ago. The US had also ordered the USS Boxer and another Marine Expeditionary Unit from San Diego. The Trump administration is also considering sending an additional 10,000 troops into the middle east to expand their military options.

The Pentagon’s decision appears to be at cross-purposes with President Donald Trump’s move to open dialogue with Tehran through Islamabad.

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The diplomatic consultations in Islamabad will include discussions on regional stability, the promotion of peace, and a joint strategy. It is expected that a joint course of action for peace and stability in the region will emerge from the discussions, according to reports in Pakistani media.