Ahmed Kamel – Egypt Daily News
The commander of the US 82nd Airborne Division has reportedly received instructions from the Pentagon to prepare for deployment to the Middle East, according to US media reports.
The US military is reportedly considering sending approximately 3,000 troops from the division’s rapid response force, capable of deploying anywhere in the world within 18 hours, to support a potential operation targeting Iran’s Kharg Island, a key oil export hub also known as “Oil Island.”
Officials are weighing alternatives, including deploying a Marine Corps combat brigade from the 31st unit, particularly after recent airstrikes damaged the island’s airport, which could limit initial airborne operations. Paratroopers offer rapid deployment advantages but lack heavy equipment, whereas the Marines provide greater capability to repair infrastructure and sustain longer-term operations.
The 82nd Airborne’s command, based at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, will coordinate operations in a potentially complex battlefield scenario, remaining on standby for urgent Pentagon directives.
The division has a history of rapid response deployments worldwide, including missions in the Middle East, Afghanistan, and Ukraine, supporting evacuations and military operations requiring swift mobilization.
While diplomatic negotiations continue to prevent escalation, the US military remains prepared to move forces quickly to Kharg Island, signaling that military options remain on the table alongside ongoing diplomatic efforts.
