The US operation against Iran is expected to conclude within weeks, not months, according to Secretary of State Marco Rubio. This timeline suggests that the US aims to achieve its objectives quickly and efficiently, potentially limiting the duration of the conflict. The swift conclusion could also help prevent a prolonged ground battle in the region.
Rubio's statement indicates that Washington has made significant progress in its operation, but it is still uncertain whether the US will need to deploy ground troops to achieve its goals. However, Rubio acknowledged that some Marines are being deployed to the region to provide the president with maximum optionality and flexibility.
The deployment of thousands of Marines and elite airborne soldiers to the region has raised concerns about the potential for an air war to escalate into a prolonged ground battle. This could lead to increased instability in the Middle East, making it challenging for the US to achieve its objectives.
Despite these concerns, President Donald Trump has emphasized the need for productive negotiations aimed at a diplomatic solution to the conflict. The extension of the deadline for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz or face attacks against its civilian energy grid suggests that the US is willing to engage in talks with Tehran.
Iranian media reported strikes on two facilities in Iran, including a decommissioned heavy-water nuclear research reactor and a factory producing yellowcake uranium. The Iranian government has confirmed that there were no radiation leaks or danger arising from either attack.
The Iranian Foreign Minister, Abbas Araqchi, condemned the Israeli-led attacks as contradicting President Trump's extended deadline for diplomacy. He warned that Iran would exact a heavy price for Israel's actions.
A senior Iranian official told Reuters that Tehran had not decided whether to respond to the US 15-point proposal sent this week after attacks on industrial and nuclear infrastructure. The official described the continuing strikes while the US was seeking talks as 'intolerable',
