Escalation in US-Iranian Conflict

As the region experiences fresh explosions on the eighth day of renewed US-Iranian clashes, Iranian officials have stated that Tehran has prepared for, and even anticipates, a US ground invasion for decades.

Seyed Mohammad Marandi, an Iranian-American scholar identified by the regime as a spokesperson, claimed that Iran has recently launched a “new type of missile.” He emphasized that the Iranian government is decentralizing its arsenal and burying it deep underground to resist sustained American air operations.

Marandi, who previously served as an adviser on Iran’s nuclear negotiations, remarked in an interview that, while he doesn’t predict an invasion is imminent, he believes the Americans are planning for one. “I think it’s safe to say there are plans for an invasion,” he noted.

Marandi added that the focus of Iranian attacks is primarily on Bahrain and Kuwait since these locations host the majority of American military assets. His comments coincided with increasing tensions in western and southern Iran as the conflict deteriorated further.

Iran launched a series of missiles and drones targeting US-affiliated facilities in both Jordan and Kuwait. Jordanian authorities reported intercepting ten missiles, while Kuwait suffered casualties and extensive damage to its power and desalination infrastructure.

In retaliation, US airstrikes targeted critical infrastructures, including bridges and weapon storage facilities. Explosions were also reported in the Iranian city of Horamabad, with Iranian media attributing these to US missiles launched from a Kuwaiti base.

According to the US government, Khorramabad houses the Imam Ali Missile Base, which serves as a key underground storage site for Iran’s Shahab-3 intermediate-range ballistic missiles. This complex had suffered damage from Israeli airstrikes targeting Tehran’s military assets in the past.

Marandi described an extensive underground military network that plays a crucial role in Iran’s strategy. He explained that when Iran launches a missile or drone, they do not remain stationary; instead, they fire and immediately relocate, minimizing the risk of being targeted by American forces.

The escalating tensions between the US and Iran have led to the breakdown of a recently signed Memorandum of Understanding meant to establish a ceasefire and facilitate nuclear negotiations. Key points of contention include control over the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, heightening its significance in the ongoing conflict.

Marandi mentioned that the Iranian military is well-prepared for ground scenarios and has integrated new weapons into their operations. He asserted that Iran has been consistently developing its missile and drone capabilities over decades and noted, “They attacked hard and are ready for a ground war.”

In closing, Marandi indicated that the Iranian government sees US ground operations as potentially the best opportunity to resolve the conflict on its terms, suggesting that they might welcome such an invasion, believing it would lead to their victory.