Iran's Tasnim news agency reported on 26/3, citing military sources familiar with the situation, that the country's ground forces have seen a surge in enthusiasm amidst growing speculation about a potential US ground operation in southern Iran.
According to the source, the Iranian armed forces have "mobilized and deployed over one million troops" for ground combat operations. Additionally, many young Iranians have submitted applications to the headquarters of the Basij militia, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), and the army to volunteer for combat.
"If the US wants to open the Strait of Hormuz with reckless and self-destructive tactics, let them do so. We are ready for their 'suicidal' strategy, and the Strait of Hormuz will remain blocked," the source added.
 |
Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps during a 2019 parade. Photo: Reuters
Brigadier General Ali Jahanshahi, commander of Iran's army, warned that a ground operation would be "very dangerous and costly for the adversary," adding that all border movements are being monitored and Iran is prepared for any scenario.
Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf stated on 25/3 that the nation's intelligence had reason to believe adversaries were planning to seize an island with the support of a regional nation.
He affirmed that Tehran is closely monitoring developments and warned that Iran's armed forces could launch continuous strikes against the "critical infrastructure" of any regional nation participating in a plot to occupy Iranian territory.
The US currently maintains about 50,000 troops in the Middle East and is preparing to deploy thousands more to the region in the coming days.
President Donald Trump's administration may be leaning towards a landing operation to control Kharg Island, known as Iran's "oil lifeline." The primary objective of this operation is to increase pressure on Tehran and compel it to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
Experts assess that deploying troops to Kharg Island would be a significant escalation, requiring a large-scale, prolonged, and risky operation with the potential for serious consequences, even within the US.
 |
Location of Kharg Island. Graphic: CNBC
The conflict between the US and Israel with Iran erupted on 28/2 and shows no signs of de-escalation. President Trump announced on 26/3 a 10-day delay in plans to attack Iranian power plants, emphasizing that negotiations are progressing well.
However, Iran's military rejected reports of dialogue with the US and stressed that stability "can only be achieved through strength." Tehran also did not accept Washington's proposed ceasefire.
Huyen Le (According to Tasnim, The New Arab, ISNA)
