Iran has mobilized more than a million fighters in preparation for a potential ground confrontation with the United States, Tasnim reported, citing a military source.
The development comes at a time of escalating tensions in the region and growing speculation about a possible US military advance on Iran’s southern front, particularly around the strategically critical Strait of Hormuz.
A “wave of enthusiasm” among the fighters
An Iranian source said there has been an increase in volunteering, with young Iranians seeking to join military formations.
“A recent increase in requests from Iran’s Basij youth, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and the military to participate in the battle,” the source was quoted as saying.
The mobilization reflects what officials described as a “wave of enthusiasm” to counter any potential US ground incursion.
Strait of Hormuz Warning
Iran has signaled its readiness to counter any attempt by US forces to reopen the Strait of Hormuz by force.
“The United States wants to open the strait by suicide. That is not a problem. We are ready to carry out their strategy and keep the strait closed,” the source said.
The waterway remains a critical global route for transporting oil, and any prolonged disruption could have far-reaching consequences for energy markets.
Trump’s negotiating remarks
US President Donald Trump has claimed that Iran is under pressure to make the deal and rejects Tehran’s position.
On Truth Social, Trump said Iran negotiators were “begging” for a deal after being militarily “wiped out” and urged them to move quickly.
Military construction in the region
US Central Command has confirmed that around 50,000 US troops are currently deployed in the Middle East. These forces are deployed at bases in the Persian Gulf and near strategic locations, supporting air strikes, missile defense systems and naval operations.
Escalation after the February strikes
The latest tensions follow a major escalation following the reported killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei and several senior commanders on February 28, prompting a large-scale military campaign by the US and Israel.
The attacks targeted military and civilian sites throughout Iran and caused significant loss of life and damage to infrastructure.
Retaliatory attacks by Iran
In response, Iranian forces launched waves of missile and drone attacks targeting American and Israeli positions throughout the region, including bases and strategic facilities.
