The Pentagon is preparing to deploy approximately 3,000 soldiers from the U.S. Army's elite 82nd Airborne Division to the Middle East, multiple sources confirmed Tuesday. The move comes amid the fourth week of the U.S.-led war against Iran, expanding American military options in the region.

A brigade combat team, along with elements of the division's headquarters, will form the bulk of the deployment from Fort Liberty, North Carolina. The unit, known for its ability to deploy worldwide within 18 to 24 hours, serves as the Army's Immediate Response Force. Initial elements, including division commander Maj. Gen. Brandon Tegtmeier and a battalion from the 1st Brigade Combat Team could begin moving within a week, with a formal written order expected imminently.

The deployment aims to bolster U.S. forces already numbering around 50,000 in the Middle East, providing capabilities for potential ground operations without a decision yet to send troops into Iran itself. Officials cited the need to protect American personnel and assets, deter Iranian escalation, and support efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, through which a fifth of global oil passes. Iran has mined parts of the strait, complicating maritime traffic.

This follows last week's dispatch of about 2,500 Marines aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer and accompanying warships to the region. The U.S. and Israel launched strikes against Iran on February 28, targeting over 9,000 sites and resulting in 13 American troops killed and 290 wounded. President Donald Trump recently claimed "productive" talks with Tehran to end the conflict, though Iran denied any discussions occurred.

In a Fox News interview on Tuesday, Trump emphasized needing "numbers" to address the Strait, adding he had no immediate plans for ground troops but would not preview military moves. Public support for U.S. strikes remains low, with a Reuters/Ipsos poll showing 35% approval.

The 82nd Airborne has deployed on short notice before, including prior Middle East rotations. Neither the Pentagon nor White House immediately commented on the reports, referring questions accordingly.