Nightline: War with Iran War with Iran: Day 21
15 snips
Mar 21, 2026 U.S. Marines boarding amphibious ships and 2,200 troops headed to the Middle East amid rising tensions. Intense debate over whether ground forces will be committed and possible mission options. Reports on strikes, oil market ripple effects, and Iran’s defiant messaging. Sophisticated drone swarms invading airspace over a major military base raise serious security alarms.
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Marines Deployed Signaling Possible Ground Options
- The U.S. deployed 2,200 Marines on amphibious ships from San Diego, signaling escalation toward possible ground options.
- The Marine Expeditionary Unit includes ground forces, fighter jets, Ospreys, and attack helicopters, enabling raids or island seizures like Karg Island.
Amphibious Force Could Target Karg Island Or Strait
- The amphibious force could be used to seize oil hubs or force open the Strait of Hormuz as a military option.
- Officials listed seizing Karg Island or coastal raids as concrete options to reopen the crucial shipping lane.
White House Denies Ground Plan While Trump Keeps Options Open
- The White House publicly says no plan to send ground troops, but President Trump declined to rule out boots on the ground.
- Trump cryptically said he "may have a plan or may not," leaving U.S. intentions ambiguous.