Washington(The COW News Digital)U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said that a potential conflict involving Iran would not require large-scale ground troop deployment and could conclude within weeks rather than lasting for months.
Speaking to reporters following a G7 meeting in France, Rubio stated that the United States is operating on schedule in its current regional operations and expects objectives to be achieved in a relatively short timeframe. He emphasized that the mission would not extend into a prolonged war and suggested that developments are progressing faster than initially anticipated.
Rubio rejected speculation about a large U.S. ground invasion of Iran, saying that Washington can achieve its strategic goals without deploying extensive land forces. However, he confirmed that limited troop deployments are being carried out in the region to provide flexibility for U.S. decision-makers and ensure operational readiness depending on evolving conditions.
According to reports cited by international news agencies, including Reuters, the United States has already deployed thousands of Marines as part of rotational units in the region. The first group is expected to arrive by the end of March aboard a major amphibious assault ship. Additional deployments of elite airborne troops are also reportedly under consideration by the Pentagon.
These movements have raised concerns among analysts that ongoing aerial operations, which have already impacted global energy supply chains, could escalate into a broader and more prolonged ground conflict. Military observers warn that such a shift would significantly increase regional instability.
Rubio also stated that Washington is awaiting a formal response from Iran regarding a 15-point proposal delivered earlier through intermediaries. He said that communication channels remain open and that some indications of willingness to engage in dialogue have been observed from the Iranian side. However, he added that key details such as timing, agenda, and negotiating parties still need clarification.
Iranian officials, on the other hand, have reportedly rejected the proposal, according to multiple diplomatic sources. Meanwhile, information obtained by intermediaries suggests that a counter-proposal from Tehran may be delivered after Friday.
The situation remains fluid, with both sides maintaining differing positions while indirect diplomatic efforts continue. International stakeholders are closely monitoring developments amid growing concerns over escalation and regional security implications.
