Iran Says Its Forces ‘Waiting’ as US Troops Arrive in Region

Iran’s parliament speaker has issued a warning, stating that his country’s military is poised to respond to American soldiers entering Iranian territory. This declaration came alongside the deployment of an additional 3,500 US troops to the Middle East, according to recent reports. The newly arrived personnel are part of a unit under the command of the warship USS Tripoli, which is accompanied by assault and transport capabilities, as noted by US Central Command on X.

Meanwhile, the Washington Post highlighted that the Pentagon is gearing up for potential ground operations in Iran, though no official confirmation has been given about the use of troops. In a message relayed through Iranian state media, Ghalibaf also remarked on the disparity between public negotiations and covert planning, suggesting that “the enemy signals negotiation in public, while in secret it plots a ground attack.”

“If I were [sending ground troops], I certainly wouldn’t tell you,” Trump stated during a recent Oval Office session, despite indicating that talks are progressing smoothly. He claimed Iran is hesitant to acknowledge discussions due to fear of being “killed by their own people.”

Strategic Moves and Mixed Signals

US officials have not yet finalized the decision to deploy ground forces, but Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the need to remain ready for various scenarios. He noted that while the US might achieve its goals without boots on the ground, “multiple contingencies” must be considered. The Pentagon is also exploring military strategies, including a “final blow” to Iran, which could involve ground troops and aerial assaults.

Iran has previously deployed bombers, fighter jets, aircraft carriers, and missile interceptors to the region as part of its campaign against the US. The USS Gerald R Ford, the Navy’s latest carrier, recently arrived in Croatia for repairs following a fire that caused injuries and substantial damage. The situation remains fluid, with uncertainty surrounding ongoing peace talks between the US and Iran.

Iran’s foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, has stated that messages have been exchanged through intermediaries but described them as “neither dialogue nor negotiation.” The US has reportedly shared a 15-point plan with Iran, aiming to address unresolved issues from the conflict, including Iran’s nuclear program. Tehran has countered with its own set of demands, such as control over the Strait of Hormuz and the withdrawal of American military bases.

Since the start of US and Israeli strikes on February 28, the conflict has resulted in the deaths of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and several other high-ranking officials. Over 1,551 Iranian civilians have also perished due to bombings, as reported by HRANA, a US-based organization tracking human rights violations. Iranian retaliation has targeted Israel and US bases, impacting key international air hubs and inflating oil prices.