A reported push by the Pentagon towards preparing for a possible ground operation in Iran has drawn sharp criticism from a retired US military official, who warned it could lead to severe consequences.
Steve Anderson, speaking in a televised interview, cautioned that deploying troops on Iranian soil would be a “terrible mistake” and could escalate into a major geopolitical crisis.
“A dangerous and complex conflict”
Anderson criticised the approach of the administration led by Donald Trump, stating that the situation has been “completely mismanaged.” He warned that even limited ground operations—whether in strategic areas like Kharg Island, the Strait of Hormuz, or nuclear-linked sites—could spiral into a large-scale conflict.
He stressed that Iran views the situation as an existential threat and is likely to respond with full force, making any military engagement highly unpredictable.
Risks of unknown terrain
Drawing from his military experience, Anderson highlighted the risks of engaging an adversary without fully understanding its capabilities and motivations.
He noted that entering unfamiliar territory without adequate strategic clarity could result in significant casualties, adding that such an operation would be a “contested assault” with high risks for US forces.
Global implications
The warning comes amid rising tensions in the region, with concerns growing over a broader escalation involving key geopolitical players. Analysts have cautioned that any ground invasion could destabilise the region further and have far-reaching international consequences.
The remarks have added to the ongoing debate in the US over the potential costs and risks of deeper military involvement in Iran.