Iran Parliament Speaker Warns US Forces of Severe Retaliation Amid Rising Military Tensions

Tensions between Iran and the United States have intensified following strong remarks from Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, who warned of severe retaliation if American troops are deployed on Iranian soil. The Speaker of Iran’s parliament, also known as the Majlis, and a former member of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, signaled that Iran is fully prepared for a direct confrontation.

According to reports released by Islamic Republic News Agency and other regional outlets on the 29th (local time), Ghalibaf accused the United States of sending mixed signals. He claimed that while diplomatic messages are being communicated publicly, there are covert preparations underway for a potential ground invasion. He emphasized that Iranian forces remain on standby, ready to respond decisively, and warned that any advancing troops would face devastating consequences.

Ghalibaf further argued that Washington had previously outlined a list of 15 demands—objectives it allegedly failed to achieve through military action. Referring to Donald Trump, he stated that earlier strategies aimed at dismantling Iran’s political system ultimately shifted focus toward reopening key maritime routes that had been affected during the conflict period. He also claimed that instability in global energy markets reflects the broader consequences of the crisis, adding that U.S. military assets—ranging from advanced fighter jets to naval carriers—have reportedly sustained notable setbacks.

Describing the current situation as part of a much larger global confrontation, Ghalibaf warned that the conflict has escalated beyond a regional dispute. He insisted that Iran possesses the capability to retaliate in a way that would force the United States to reconsider any future aggression. He also called for national unity under the leadership of Mojtaba Khamenei, encouraging citizens to remain vigilant and aligned with the country’s supreme leadership.

Meanwhile, diplomatic developments continue alongside military positioning. Steve Witkoff, acting as a representative for the United States, reportedly delivered a comprehensive ceasefire proposal to Iranian authorities on the 26th. The proposal includes multiple conditions, such as the dismantling of nuclear infrastructure, a halt to uranium enrichment activities, and the transfer of enriched materials to the International Atomic Energy Agency. Additional provisions reportedly involve ending support for allied regional groups and ensuring secure navigation through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.

At the same time, the United States continues to increase its military presence in the region. Reports indicate that an additional aircraft carrier, the USS George H. W. Bush, is being deployed to the Middle East. This move is accompanied by the mobilization of approximately 5,000 Marines and around 2,000 troops from the 82nd Airborne Division, signaling a significant escalation in operational readiness.

These parallel tracks of diplomacy and military buildup underscore the fragile nature of the current situation. While negotiations remain on the table, the increasing deployment of forces and strong rhetoric from both sides suggest that the risk of further escalation cannot be ignored.