Iran Warns of Ground Invasion of Neighbors if US Resumes Attacks

Iran has threatened to launch ground invasions into neighboring countries if the United States resumes attacks, according to reports. The Islamic Republic is said to be strengthening its defenses and mobilizing its population in anticipation of the U.S. midterm elections in November.

According to The Wall Street Journal, plans are being developed to escalate military responses if President Donald Trump and his Gulf allies continue to strike Iran. These potential responses could include ground invasions of Iran's neighboring countries. Satellite imagery indicates that Iran is fortifying its nuclear sites and military installations along its borders.

Iran's neighbors include the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, both of which have supported Trump's actions. Other bordering nations are Iraq, Afghanistan, Oman, Turkmenistan, Pakistan, Bahrain, and Qatar.

Tehran is reportedly preparing its citizens for a renewed conflict. The Iranian government has initiated measures such as having soldiers read war stories to schoolchildren, organizing political rallies, and training civilians in the use of handheld anti-aircraft weapons. Billboards advertising sniper courses and training for shoulder-fired missile systems have also appeared.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps announced in November that it had trained its first female commando units in guerrilla warfare, including instruction in firearms and drone piloting. This propaganda effort coincides with diplomatic, economic, and political pressures on the country, exacerbated by U.S. sanctions and an intensified blockade.

Sanam Vakil, Middle East director at London's Chatham House think-tank, suggested to the WSJ that the "war footing" serves Iran's interests amidst impasses on multiple fronts. She indicated that a new conflict could help the Islamic Republic overcome its current challenges.

Iranian officials have suggested that troops could conduct land incursions into neighboring countries. Iranian national security chief Mohsen Rezaei identified the UAE as a potential target, mentioning attacks on data centers and internet cables. Tehran has also warned of targeting Saudi energy infrastructure, following recent Houthi air strikes on oil facilities in Saudi Arabia.

The U.S. has reportedly deployed a third aircraft carrier and an additional Marine unit to the region, prompting speculation that Trump might order further attacks on Iran. The Pentagon is also considering sending more air defense equipment and munitions to U.S. bases in the Middle East. However, President Trump previously stated that he would not order further strikes on Tehran before the November midterm elections.