Amid rising tensions in the Middle East, Iran has warned of a strong military response following intelligence reports that “enemy countries” may attempt to seize one of its islands with support from a regional state.
Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said Tehran is closely monitoring developments and would retaliate decisively if any such move is made. In a post on X, he cautioned that any attempt to occupy Iranian territory would trigger “relentless, unceasing” attacks on the critical infrastructure of the country involved.
“Based on intelligence reports, Iran’s enemies are preparing to occupy one of the Iranian islands with the support of a regional country. Our forces are monitoring all movements, and if they take any step, all vital infrastructure of that country will be targeted,” Ghalibaf said.
Separately, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi claimed that the United States has failed to achieve its key war objectives, including securing a rapid military victory or triggering regime change in Tehran.
The remarks come as the United States ramps up its military presence in the region following joint US-Israeli strikes on Iranian targets and Tehran’s subsequent retaliation. According to reports, the Pentagon has ordered the deployment of around 2,000 additional troops from the 82nd Airborne Division, alongside two Marine Expeditionary Units moving in from the Pacific.
The Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group is deploying from Japan, while the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group is advancing from San Diego. Together, these reinforcements could raise the US military presence in the region by 6,000 to 7,000 personnel, adding to the roughly 50,000 already stationed there.
Analysts say the scale of the buildup—one of the largest since the 2003 Iraq War—signals the potential for prolonged conflict. While no ground offensive has been officially announced, the deployments point to multiple possible scenarios, including the seizure or blockade of strategic locations such as Kharg Island, securing Iran’s coastline to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, or attempts to control nuclear assets.
Some interpretations of Ghalibaf’s warning suggest a possible reference to the United Arab Emirates, with speculation that it could be involved in supporting US efforts in the region. However, no country has been officially named.
Observers note that many Iranians now expect the conflict to continue rather than de-escalate, with growing concern over the strategic importance of key locations like Kharg Island and the broader implications for regional stability.
