Republican lawmakers are demanding that Congress have the authority to decide if the U.S. sends ground troops into Iran, reflecting differing views within the party.
On 30 Mar 2026 GMT+7, Republican U.S. Representative Nancy Mace spoke to CNN after attending a classified briefing in the House of Representatives about the Iran war. She expressed concern over the government's plans, stating that the decision to deploy ground troops to Iran should require congressional approval.
She stated that if there were to be a ground operation involving the Marines or the 82nd Airborne Division, it would amount to a full-scale war, and she believes Congress must be involved in that decision. She emphasized that the U.S. does not want to send ground troops.
This move follows a Washington Post report that the U.S. Department of Defense is preparing limited ground operation plans in Iran, including attacks on Qeshm Island and areas near the Strait of Hormuz.
Within the Republican Party, opposition is growing. A former congressman warned that a ground invasion would make the U.S. poorer and less secure, and would cause energy and food prices to soar.
The White House spokesperson said the Pentagon's role is to prepare multiple options for the president's consideration but stressed that no decision has been made. Meanwhile, the U.S. has increased its military presence in the Middle East, with U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) reporting that about 3,500 troops have recently arrived in the region, with several thousand more potentially to be deployed.
Source: CNN