General Warns of “Absolute Disaster” if US Troops Enter Iran

US Considers Ground Operation in Iran Amidst Escalating War

Day 31 of the war with Iran has brought the United States to a critical juncture, with reports indicating President Donald Trump is considering sending ground troops into the country. This potential move comes as gas prices nationwide are projected to exceed $4 a gallon, and an oil supply crisis is estimated to cost the nation at least 10,000 jobs per month. While some insiders appear to be profiting from the conflict, the war itself remains deeply unpopular with the American public.

Trump’s Shifting Stance and Risky Missions

President Trump has recently spoken of “great progress in talks” with Iran. However, he has also issued stark warnings: if an agreement is not reached, the U.S. will strike Iranian power and desalination plants. Such actions would threaten the water supply for millions and are prohibited under international law. This pattern of threats followed by backing down has been noted by The New York Times, which reported the President has repeatedly threatened attacks only to reconsider as the global economy reacts to risks in energy supplies.

Adding to the tension, U.S. officials have informed The Wall Street Journal that Trump is contemplating a military operation to retrieve nearly 1,000 pounds of uranium from Iran. This mission is described as complex and risky, likely requiring American forces to operate inside Iran for an extended period. Experts warn that seizing the uranium by force would be one of the most challenging operations ordered by Trump, potentially triggering retaliation from Iran and prolonging the war beyond the administration’s initial four-to-six-week timeline.

Pentagon Prepares for Ground Operations

According to officials speaking with The Washington Post, the Pentagon is preparing for weeks of ground operations in Iran. These operations are not envisioned as a full-scale invasion but could involve raids by special operations forces and conventional infantry. This reporting on potential ground troops directly contradicts President Trump’s public statements. He recently told the Financial Times that he had achieved his goal of regime change and informed Bloomberg that Iran was eager to “settle” and that the war was progressing “unbelievably well.”

Public Opinion and Economic Strain

These considerations for ground operations seem at odds with public sentiment. A recent poll reveals that only 29% of Americans approve of the ongoing war with Iran, and a mere 8% support sending ground troops. This low approval rating is compounded by the significant economic hardship Americans are facing due to the war. Reports from NBC News suggest a flurry of bets made before major war announcements point to speculation that individuals with insider knowledge of U.S. military plans may have profited millions through speculative trading on platforms like Polymarket. Around $529 million was traded on the platform related to the timing of strikes last month.

Expert Analysis: A “Geopolitical Disaster”

Retired U.S. Army Brigadier General Steve Anderson described the current situation as potentially the “greatest geopolitical disaster in the history of our country.” He emphasized the lack of understanding regarding the enemy, referring to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as “committed religious fanatics” fighting a “holy war.” General Anderson stated that any move to put boots on the ground, whether on Karg Island or in other sensitive areas, would be an “absolute disaster.”

“We do not know this enemy. The IRGC are committed religious fanatics… These people, 200,000 strong running the IRGC are absolutely committed and they’re in a holy war against us, the great Satan.”

– Retired U.S. Army Brigadier General Steve Anderson

He believes the military is being used as a “personal militia” rather than for its intended purpose. General Anderson highlighted the enemy’s preparedness, noting that Iran is likely anticipating U.S. movements and preparing defenses like booby traps and mined harbors. He questioned the strategic objective, asking, “And for what? So that we can get control of the oil to try to somehow acquiesce or change this regime?” He concluded that such an action would be a “terrible, terrible mistake.”

Intelligence and Strategic Miscalculations

Concerns are also raised about the accuracy of intelligence regarding Iran’s military capabilities. While it was suggested that about 90% of Iran’s missile capability had been neutralized, recent findings indicate only about a third of their missile and drone capabilities have been degraded. This suggests a significant underestimation of the threat, which could lead to a much more difficult and prolonged engagement than anticipated.

Looking Ahead

As the war enters its second month, the specter of ground operations looms large. The disconnect between President Trump’s public pronouncements and the reported military planning, coupled with widespread public disapproval and economic hardship, sets a volatile stage. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether diplomacy prevails or if the U.S. commits to a dangerous and potentially disastrous ground campaign in Iran.

Source: ‘It would be an absolute disaster’: Retired U.S. Army General warns of boots on the ground in Iran (YouTube)