Experts Say US Would Need Up to One Million Troops to Control Iran: Report
Islamabad: A recent analysis published in a British newspaper suggests that the United States would require up to one million troops to gain full control over Iran, with experts warning that a limited military deployment would be insufficient for such an objective.
According to the report, former US President Donald Trump is considering deploying an additional 10,000 troops to the Middle East, which would add to the approximately 8,000 American forces already present in the region. However, analysts believe that this number would fall far short of what is needed for any large-scale operation against Iran.
Defense analyst Sam Kiley, referencing past conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, noted that even with hundreds of thousands of troops and support from local forces, achieving lasting stability proved extremely difficult. He emphasized that Iran’s large population, vast territory, and strong military capabilities would make any such operation even more complex.
The report further highlighted that while initial strikes might allow the US to secure limited strategic targets—such as oil facilities or key islands—it would likely face prolonged resistance, including guerrilla warfare and advanced drone attacks. Such conditions could turn the conflict into a lengthy and costly engagement.
Former senior British military officials also warned that without clearly defined objectives, any large-scale ground operation could end in failure, adding that a war with Iran could have serious global consequences.
