US officials plan potential ground ops in Iran

US officials are preparing for potential escalation in the ongoing conflict with Iran, including planning for possible ground operations on Iranian soil. The Washington Post reports that military officials are developing contingency plans as the US naval blockade of Iran continues. This planning represents a significant escalation in the administration's posture, moving beyond naval and air power to consider direct intervention. The development comes amid a series of threats and counter-threats between Washington and Tehran over the blockade and regional shipping lanes.