ISTANBUL

Hundreds of US special operations personnel, including Army Rangers and Navy SEALs, reached the Middle East as Washington increased its military capabilities, the New York Times reported, citing two US military officials.

The commandos have not yet been assigned specific missions but could be deployed across several potential fronts, the report said, identifying the Strait of Hormuz and the Isfahan nuclear site as possible targets. These elite units may also focus on seizing Kharg Island, which serves as the primary oil hub for Iran.

The total US troop presence in the region now exceeds 50,000, which is approximately 10,000 more than typical levels. This surge includes 5,000 Marines and sailors recently stationed in the area to provide broader combat options.

The Pentagon also recently directed 2,000 soldiers from the 82nd Airborne Division to deploy within striking distance of the Islamic Republic. While their exact location remains undisclosed, officials suggested these forces could support ground operations alongside the Marines.

US and Israeli airstrikes on Iran have continued since Feb. 28, killing more than 1,340 people, including then-Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. The Strait of Hormuz closure has severely disrupted global oil flows, with around 20 million barrels normally transiting the waterway daily.