Marines and paratroopers train for rapid-response contamination scenarios amid warnings Iran could escalate to chemical weapons
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
U.S. Marines and Army paratroopers deployed in connection with the ongoing Iran conflict are conducting specialized training to prepare for potential chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear incidents, according to a report detailing operational readiness measures in the region.
The preparations include drills designed to ensure rapid response to contamination threats. Former Marine Jonathan Hackett said standard forces are being trained alongside specialized units, emphasizing speed and coordination during simulated exposure scenarios.
“The CBRN unit can also be scaled up in size, but the conventional Marine forces will have their CBRN gear and be drilling on it, with 15 seconds to get mask and MOPP on when someone shouts ‘Gas, gas, gas,’” Hackett said, referring to chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear equipment and mission-oriented protective posture gear.
Military planners are assessing the possibility that the conflict could expand into unconventional warfare, particularly if conditions deteriorate or Iran faces mounting pressure. The report noted that the likelihood of chemical or nuclear-related incidents could increase under such circumstances.
Chemical weapons specialist Lennie Phillips said Iran possesses the industrial capacity to produce chemical agents if it chooses to shift its capabilities.
“Iran has a very well-established chemical and pharmaceutical industry, so if they decide to change to something else it is fairly straightforward to do,” Phillips said. “So, when it comes to the chemical weapons side, I think this is the area of concern.”
Phillips also pointed to concerns over the possible relocation of chemical weapons stockpiles previously associated with Syria.
“They may well still be on bases somewhere, but it’s stronger than hearsay that some of these chemical weapons actually moved eastwards and are now either in Iraq or Iran,” Phillips said.
The report further indicated that U.S. policy messaging could play a role in deterrence. Analysts said clearly defined consequences may be necessary to discourage the use of prohibited weapons.
“There needs to be a Trump red line, which means something, which would be the most effective way of stopping these weapons being used,” chemical warfare specialist Hamish de Bretton-Gordon said.
Bretton-Gordon added that historical precedent could influence decision-making in Tehran if the conflict escalates further.
“My concern is that if the Iranians run out of road, what do they do then, because this is in their psyche from the Iran-Iraq War,” he said.
The training underway reflects broader contingency planning by U.S. forces as the conflict environment continues to evolve, with military officials preparing for scenarios involving unconventional threats.
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