Iran’s parliament speaker has warned that the country’s forces are “waiting for American soldiers” after the United States deployed an additional 3,500 troops to the Middle East.
Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said Iran would respond strongly if US troops entered its territory, warning that Iranian forces would “rain fire” on them.
US Central Command said the newly arrived personnel including sailors and marines are part of a unit led by the warship USS ‘Tripoli’, which carries assault and transport capabilities.
The deployment comes amid reports that the Pentagon is preparing for possible weeks-long ground operations in Iran. However, US officials have not confirmed whether ground troops will actually be sent.
In comments carried by Iranian state media, Ghalibaf accused the US of sending mixed signals, saying Washington talks about negotiations publicly while secretly planning a ground attack.
US President Donald Trump has also given unclear messages about the conflict. In recent days, he said the war could end soon, but also indicated he is considering further action against Iran, including targeting energy facilities.
US media earlier reported that the administration may seek about $200 billion in emergency funding from Congress for ongoing military operations, suggesting the campaign could continue.
Speaking at the White House last week, Trump said he was not planning to send ground troops, but added, “If I were, I certainly wouldn’t tell you.”
Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the US could achieve its objectives without deploying ground forces, but noted that the president must be ready for “multiple contingencies.”
According to US officials cited by the Washington Post, any potential ground operation would likely involve limited raids by regular troops and Special Operations forces, rather than a full-scale invasion.
Axios also reported that the Pentagon is considering options for a decisive strike on Iran, which could include both ground forces and an expanded bombing campaign.
The US has already increased its military presence in the region, deploying bombers, fighter jets, aircraft carriers and missile defence systems.
Meanwhile, the US Navy’s advanced aircraft carrier USS ‘Gerald R Ford’ arrived in Croatia on Saturday for repairs after a fire onboard injured several sailors and caused significant damage.
It remains unclear whether diplomatic efforts are underway. Iran has denied holding direct talks with the US, although Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said messages have been exchanged through intermediaries, but stressed these do not amount to negotiations.
Source: BBC