Iran responded strongly on Sunday to reports suggesting that the United States might be organizing ground forces as part of its strategy to eliminate Iran’s nuclear weapons ambitions and control the Strait of Hormuz.
During a statement, Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, the speaker of Iran’s parliament, asserted, “As long as the Americans demand Iran’s surrender, our response will be that we will never accept humiliation.” He emphasized that Iranian forces are prepared to act aggressively if American troops engage in hostilities, vowing to “punish their regional partners.” He added, “Our missiles are ready, and our determination is increasing.”
In related developments, President Trump has sought support from other nations for naval forces to help ensure security in the Strait of Hormuz. The Trump administration, along with the Department of the Army, is reportedly considering various options that may include sending ground troops, possibly to safeguard a targeted Iranian nuclear program or to address Iranian threats to oil shipping in the affected region.
A recent report noted that the Pentagon is drafting plans for a potential U.S. ground operation in Iran, which could extend over several weeks if President Trump approves. This operation appears to involve limited special operations and conventional raids targeting specific sites, rather than a large-scale invasion.
White House press secretary Caroline Leavitt remarked that the Department of Defense is tasked with providing the president with diverse options, while clarifying that no decisions have been finalized.
Moreover, inquiries to the Pentagon about these measures were made by Fox News on Sunday morning. In addition, Reuters indicated that the administration is looking into deploying thousands of extra troops to the area, with considerations about utilizing ground forces for specific objectives like taking Kharg Island. Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed that while the U.S. isn’t ready for extensive ground operations, the goals could still be met without them.
The discussion around a potential U.S. military action in Iran raises significant political and military concerns, as experts caution that even a limited operation could lead to prolonged U.S. involvement and a higher risk of counterattacks.
The U.S. military has confirmed the deployment of thousands of Marines to the Middle East, with the first group recently arriving on an amphibious assault ship. Leavitt noted that dispatching Iranian ground forces is not on the table for now, although it’s not entirely ruled out.
Last week, the U.S. proposed a 15-point ceasefire plan to Iran, which involved reopening the Strait of Hormuz and restricting Iran’s nuclear program. However, Tehran dismissed this proposal and offered its own terms.
Concerns persist regarding shipping safety in the region, and the ongoing conflict, particularly after Yemen’s Houthis escalated involvement in the war, has further complicated matters.
President Trump has warned of potential damage to Iran’s energy infrastructure if it fails to ensure the Strait of Hormuz remains open, although he recently extended the ultimatum by an additional ten days.
Threats from Iran have dissuaded many oil tankers from navigating through this critical waterway. Nevertheless, Iran has allowed a limited number of Pakistani-flagged vessels to pass through, permitting two ships daily.
