The U.S. has deployed about 5,000 additional Marines and sailors to the Middle East, bringing troop levels to over 50,000—around 10,000 more than usual—as President Trump considers next steps in the conflict with Iran.

The Marines’ exact mission is unclear, but options under consideration include larger operations such as seizing territory to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil route disrupted by Iranian attacks.

Additional forces, including 2,000 paratroopers from the 82nd Airborne Division, have been sent to provide more military flexibility and could be used for targeted ground operations.

Despite these reinforcements, experts say the current troop levels are far too small for any large-scale invasion or occupation, the New York Times has reported.

Given Iran’s size and population, military analysts считают such an operation unrealistic with existing forces.