Iran has warned that its forces are prepared to confront any US ground deployment, saying they are “waiting” for American troops to arrive, as tensions continue to escalate in the ongoing conflict involving the United States and Israel.
The statement marks a sharp escalation in rhetoric as the war enters its second month, with increasing concerns over a potential ground confrontation.
The developments come amid parallel diplomatic efforts, with Pakistan hosting talks involving foreign ministers from Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Egypt aimed at exploring a possible ceasefire.
Iran’s parliament speaker accused the United States of plotting a ground attack despite ongoing diplomatic engagement, signalling Tehran’s growing distrust of negotiations.
Meanwhile, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard issued a warning that it could target American-linked institutions in the region, including universities, if the conflict intensifies further.
The warning underscores the widening scope of potential targets as tensions spill beyond traditional military zones.
According to a report by The Washington Post, the Pentagon is preparing for a possible deployment of ground forces, with the first contingent of US Marines already arriving in the region.
US officials have not publicly confirmed plans for a ground operation, but the reported troop movement has heightened concerns of a broader escalation.
Military activity has continued alongside diplomatic efforts, with ongoing strikes reported in Iran and defensive actions by regional allies.
Analysts said the simultaneous escalation of military preparedness and diplomatic engagement reflects a volatile situation with uncertain outcomes.
“The region is at a critical juncture where both conflict and negotiation are advancing in parallel,” a regional analyst said.
The talks in Pakistan are expected to continue, though prospects for an immediate breakthrough remain unclear.
