Amidst the highest regional tensions in decades, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf issued a dramatic communique on Sunday, warning the Iranian people that the United States is secretly plotting a ground invasion while publicly feigning an interest in diplomacy.
In a sharp letter published Sunday morning, Qalibaf accused Washington of strategic duplicity. "The enemy openly sends messages of negotiation and dialogue, but secretly plans a ground attack," Qalibaf wrote.
He warned that Iranian armed forces are prepared for a direct confrontation:
"The enemy plans a ground attack without being aware that our armed forces are waiting for the Americans to enter, to ignite them and punish their partners in the region."
The Speaker’s comments highlight a massive disconnect between Tehran’s rhetoric and recent statements from President Trump.
- The Ultimatum: Just hours prior, Trump announced a 10-day extension of his ultimatum to Iran, claiming the delay was at Tehran's request and that "talks are progressing very well."
- The 15-Point Plan: Qalibaf dismissed these diplomatic overtures as an attempt by the U.S. to "achieve through diplomacy what it could not achieve through war," specifically referencing a 15-point proposal delivered via Pakistan that demands the removal of enriched uranium and the cessation of Iran’s ballistic missile program.
- Ongoing Strikes: Qalibaf remained defiant on the military front, stating, "Our launches continue, our missiles will not stop, and our determination has only grown."
The fiery rhetoric comes as the Pentagon bolsters its regional footprint. Reports indicate the arrival of 5,000 U.S. personnel, comprising 2,500 Marines and 2,500 sailors, aboard the USS Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group. Pentagon officials have reportedly acknowledged preparations for "limited ground operations," which could include integrated raids by special operations and conventional infantry.
A Region Ablaze
The escalating war of words is underscored by devastating kinetic action across the Gulf:
- Kuwait Airport: An Iranian drone strike has left the airport burning for three consecutive days.
- Prince Sultan Air Base: A recent attack on the U.S. base in Saudi Arabia wounded 12 soldiers and inflicted heavy damage on a high-value E-3 Sentry (AWACS) surveillance aircraft.
- Khamenei Compound: Recent satellite imagery shows significant damage to the Supreme Leader's compound, fueling rumors regarding the health and status of Mojtaba Khamenei.
