Nine To Noon Foreign correspondent Sebastian Usher
Mar 29, 2026
Sebastian Usher, BBC Middle East analyst and reporter based in Jerusalem. He outlines US options and possible targets in the region. He describes risks of a protracted conflict and Iran’s asymmetric responses. He covers Houthi maritime threats and Pakistan’s diplomatic shuttle efforts.
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US Keeps Ground Invasion Option Open
- The US is keeping a ground invasion of Iran as an option while also seeking dialogue, creating strategic ambiguity.
- Sebastian Usher notes ~50,000 US troops are in the region, enough for limited operations like Kharg Island or Strait of Hormuz moves.
Quick Victory Has Become Unlikely
- A short, decisive campaign looks less likely as President Trump struggles to achieve a quick, convincing victory.
- Usher argues heavy airstrikes and targeted assassinations haven't forced Iran to accept Washington's 15-point plan, so escalation risks growing.
Iran's Asymmetric Warfare Strategy
- Iran is fighting asymmetrically with missiles, drones and regional proxies rather than conventional air or naval parity.
- Usher highlights daily missile volleys, strikes on Gulf neighbours, and the potential for mass infantry waves if a large ground offensive occurred.