Sen Andy Kim warns against US ground troops in Iran as war tensions rise
WASHINGTON, DC: Senator Andy Kim on Sunday, March 29, urged President Donald Trump and Republican lawmakers to avoid deploying American ground troops to Iran, citing concerns about risks and long-term consequences.
Kim questioned the strategic purpose of such a move as the conflict continues.
His remarks come amid reports that the Pentagon is preparing for potential extended operations in the region. The developments coincide with an ongoing buildup of US military assets in the Middle East.
Kim warns ground deployment to prolong conflict
Kim made a direct appeal against sending US troops into Iran during an appearance on CNN’s “State of the Union.” “We cannot have American troops on the ground in Iran. This is going to be such a risky operation.
And for what purpose?” he said. While no US ground invasion has been confirmed, recent reports indicate that defense officials are preparing contingency plans that could involve extended operations.
Estimates have suggested that up to 10,000 additional troops could be deployed to the region if needed.
Kim argued that introducing ground forces would escalate the situation rather than bring it to a close. “This is not an end to this war, this is something that will only prolong it and increase the risk at a time that we've seen already so many service members put at harm's way, and this administration not giving them everything that they need,” he said.
Drawing on his experience as a former State Department officer embedded with US forces in Afghanistan, Kim pointed to past conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, noting that many casualties were linked to improvised explosive devices used by Iran-backed groups. “It wasn't just the ballistic missiles that was the threat,” Kim said.
He also raised logistical concerns about sustaining a ground operation. “Where are they going to bunker down? Where are they going to get provisions?” he asked. “Putting them in that kind of way is so risky.”
US reinforces Military presence as Iran issues warning
The US has continued to increase its military presence in the Middle East, with an additional 3,500 troops arriving as part of a unit led by the USS Tripoli.
According to US Central Command, the deployment includes Marines, sailors, and supporting assault and transport capabilities.
The buildup comes amid reports that the Pentagon is preparing for the possibility of weeks-long operations in Iran, although officials have not confirmed whether ground troops will ultimately be used.
Previous reporting has suggested that any potential mission could involve a combination of conventional forces and Special Operations units, potentially focused on limited objectives rather than a full-scale invasion.
Iranian officials have responded with warnings. Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said the country’s forces were “waiting for American soldiers to enter on the ground so they can rain fire upon them,” according to state media. He also said “the enemy signals negotiation in public, while in secret it plots a ground attack.”
