US Troops Deploy as Trump Eyes Forced Opening of Strait of Hormuz
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U.S. ground troops have arrived in the Middle East. This move gives President Donald Trump the military option to try and forcibly reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran has blocked this critical waterway. Normally, one-fifth of the world's traded oil passes through it. The blockade has sent global oil prices above $100 per barrel.
President Trump says he is still open to diplomacy. U.S. bombing of Iran continues. However, on Sunday he also stated a desire to "take the oil in Iran."
Any U.S. military action to open the strait is considered high-risk. Experts warn it could trigger strong retaliation from Iran. The strait is Iran's biggest point of leverage in the current war.