Amid ongoing claims of diplomacy, the United States is rapidly increasing military deployment in the Middle East, signaling possible ground operations against Iran. The Pentagon has ordered the deployment of 1,000 paratroopers from the 82nd Airborne Division to the Gulf region, alongside existing warships, fighter jets, drones, missiles, and helicopters. Reports suggest the US aims to gain control over Iran’s ports, islands, and oil reserves. However, a ground invasion poses significant risks, as past US operations have resulted in heavy losses. As the war enters Day 27, tensions are escalating further after Iran rejected the US’s 15-point peace proposal. Tehran has also issued a strong warning: if ground attacks are launched, it may block the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. This strategic waterway connects the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden and handles millions of barrels of oil daily. Any disruption could severely impact global trade, increase oil prices, and destabilize supply chains, affecting countries worldwide, including India.
