Iran Threatens Invasion of Neighbors if Trump Resumes Attacks
Tehran bolsters defenses and rallies citizens, preparing for potential ground incursions ahead of U.S. midterm elections.
Iran has issued threats of ground invasions into neighboring countries if U.S. President Donald Trump resumes military strikes, according to reports from The Wall Street Journal. The Islamic Republic is reportedly bolstering its defenses and rallying its population in anticipation of potential renewed conflict, particularly in the lead-up to the U.S. midterm elections in November.
Sources indicate that plans are being developed for a more severe military response should Trump and his Gulf allies continue to launch attacks on Iran. This escalated response could include ground invasions of neighboring nations, as satellite imagery reveals Iran is fortifying nuclear sites and military camps along its borders. Countries bordering Iran include the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Afghanistan, Oman, Turkmenistan, Pakistan, Bahrain, and Qatar.
The Iranian government is reportedly preparing its citizens for a "renewed" conflict. This includes efforts such as teaching war stories to schoolchildren, holding political rallies, and training civilians in the use of handheld anti-aircraft weapons. Billboard signs advertising sniper courses and training for shoulder-fired missile systems have also been observed. In November, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed to have trained its first female commando units in guerrilla warfare, including firearms and drone piloting.
These propaganda efforts coincide with significant diplomatic, economic, and political pressures on Iran, exacerbated by U.S. sanctions and a tightened blockade. Sanam Vakil, Middle East director at London's Chatham House, suggested to the WSJ that this "war footing" serves the Islamic Republic well amid an impasse on multiple fronts, potentially allowing it to "dig itself out of the cul-de-sac it has dug for itself."
Iranian officials have suggested that troops could conduct land incursions into neighboring countries. Specifically, Iranian national security chief Mohsen Rezaei identified the UAE as a potential target, with attacks possibly aimed at data centers and internet cables. Tehran has also warned of targeting Saudi energy infrastructure, following recent Houthi air strikes on oil facilities in the kingdom.
U.S. military presence in the region has increased, with a third aircraft carrier and an additional U.S. Marine unit deployed. The Pentagon is also reportedly considering sending more air defense equipment and munitions to U.S. bases across the Middle East. However, President Trump stated last week that he would not order further strikes on Tehran before the upcoming midterm elections.