House Republican Predicts US Ground Troops Deployment in Iran Amid Strait of Hormuz Conflict

WASHINGTON — Rep. Pat Fallon (R-Texas), chair of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Military Personnel and a former Air Force officer, said on Monday that he expects President Trump to deploy US troops in Iran. Fallon made the remarks during an interview on Fox Business Network's "Mornings with Maria," when asked about the possibility of US boots on the ground.

Fallon suggested that ground troops, including at least special operations forces with allies in the region and air cover, would be necessary. He stated that the US cannot leave Iran until the job is done and must change the tactics of the Tehran government.

Fallon compared Iran's population of 93 million to Iraq's 25 million at the time of the US invasion more than two decades ago, noting that Iran is larger in size than Spain, France, the United Kingdom, and Germany combined.

The conflict escalated after the war began in late February, leading to the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly 20 percent of the world's oil supply passes. President Trump has sought to increase pressure on Iran to reopen the strait.

In a social media post over the weekend, Trump warned of escalated attacks on Iran's civilian infrastructure if no agreement is reached by Tuesday.

“Tuesday will be Power Plant Day, and Bridge Day, all wrapped up in one, in Iran. There will be nothing like it!!! Open the F—in’ Strait, you crazy bastards, or you’ll be living in Hell – JUST WATCH! Praise be to Allah.”

In an interview with The Hill on Sunday, Trump indicated he is not ruling out troops on the ground if Iran does not reach an agreement.