**Pentagon officials have made detailed preparations for deploying U.S. ground forces into Iran**, according to multiple sources briefed on the discussions. This development comes as President Trump weighs moves in the U.S.-Israel-led conflict with Iran. Senior military commanders have submitted specific requests aimed at preparing for the possibility of deploying ground forces in the region. The preparations are part of a broader effort by the Pentagon to expand military options available to the President. However, it remains unclear under what circumstances President Trump would authorize the use of troops on the ground. When asked about ground troops during a press conference in the Oval Office on Thursday, Mr. Trump said, "*No, I'm not putting troops anywhere*" but quickly added, "**If I were, I certainly wouldn't tell you**." White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt clarified the situation in a statement, saying, "**It's the job of the Pentagon to make preparations in order to give the Commander in Chief maximum optionality**." She emphasized that the preparations do not necessarily mean the President has made a decision to deploy ground troops. Leavitt also pointed out that the President stated he is not planning to send ground troops anywhere at this time. The military has also held meetings to prepare for the possible detention of Iranian soldiers and paramilitary operatives if the President decides to deploy American ground forces. According to two sources, the planning involves determining where the Iranians would be sent. The U.S. is preparing to deploy elements of the 82nd Airborne Division into the Middle East region, including the Army's Global Response Force and the Marine Corps' Marine Expeditionary Unit. The deployment of U.S. ground forces is being prepared in conjunction with the movement of thousands of Marines to the Middle East. Three warships and approximately 2,200 Marines from an expeditionary unit departed California earlier this week. This is the second such Marine unit sent since the war began, and it could take a few weeks for it to be in place. The first unit, which was sent from the Pacific, is still making its way into the region.