International publications, including Forbes, have suggested that the United States is unlikely to conduct a ground invasion in Iran, pointing out that the U.S. has deployed aircraft carriers and support equipment without sending ground troops. President Donald Trump has shown a consistent stance against repeating the experiences of the Iraq occupation. The publications indicate that potential U.S. strikes could be aimed at senior leaders of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard and the current regime.

Additionally, The Washington Post highlights a stark contradiction in U.S. policy as Trump advocates for peace in the Middle East while simultaneously ramping up military readiness for a potential confrontation with Iran. Analysts express concern that the military buildup might risk igniting regional tensions and complicating ongoing peace efforts, while Trump's supporters argue that displaying military strength could push Tehran towards accepting U.S. conditions.

Furthermore, the Financial Times notes that the scale and rapidity of the American military buildup in the Gulf exceed any previous instances known and warn that the present reinforcements could be adequate for an extended air campaign lasting several weeks. Analysts have drawn parallels between the current deployment and that which preceded the 2003 invasion of Iraq, cautioning about the high costs associated with such military actions.