Rubio: Iran War to Conclude in Weeks, No Ground Troops Required
The United States anticipates that its military operation against Iran will conclude within weeks rather than months, according to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Speaking to reporters following a meeting with G7 counterparts in France, Rubio stated that Washington is “on or ahead of schedule” and expects to fulfill its objectives without deploying ground troops.
Deployment of Troops and Military Assets
While emphasizing that ground troops are not necessary for achieving U.S. goals, Rubio acknowledged that some forces are being sent to the region to provide President Trump with “maximum optionality” and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. The U.S. has dispatched two contingents of Marines, with the first group expected to arrive by the end of March aboard an amphibious assault ship. Additionally, the Pentagon plans to deploy thousands of elite airborne soldiers.
These troop movements have raised concerns that the conflict, which began on February 28 with U.S. and Israeli airstrikes that killed Iran’s supreme leader and other high-ranking officials, could escalate into a prolonged ground war.
Iran’s Response and Global Implications
Iran has retaliated by targeting U.S. and Israeli assets in the region, as well as civilian infrastructure in Gulf Arab nations. This has led to significant disruptions in global energy trade, raising concerns about rising prices and potential recession. President Trump has expressed a desire to de-escalate the conflict, highlighting ongoing negotiations aimed at a diplomatic resolution, despite Iran’s claims that no such discussions have commenced.
On Thursday, Trump extended a deadline by ten days for Iran to reopen the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz or face potential attacks on its civilian energy infrastructure. Rubio discussed with G7 foreign ministers the possibility that Iran might attempt to impose shipping tolls through the Strait even after the conflict concludes. He urged European and Asian nations that benefit from trade through the waterway to contribute to securing free passage.
Recent Strikes and Nuclear Concerns
Iranian media reported that strikes occurred on a decommissioned heavy-water nuclear research reactor and a facility producing yellowcake uranium. Iranian officials stated there were no radiation leaks or dangers from these attacks. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed that Iran reported no increase in off-site radiation levels at the yellowcake facility and indicated it would investigate further.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi claimed that Israel, in coordination with the U.S., had also targeted two steel factories and a power plant. Araqchi stated that these actions contradict the extended deadline for diplomatic negotiations, warning that Iran would impose a “HEAVY price” for what he termed Israeli crimes.
U.S. Proposal and Ongoing Conflict
A senior Iranian official indicated that Tehran had not yet decided how to respond to a 15-point proposal sent by the U.S. following the recent attacks on its industrial and nuclear infrastructure. The official noted that Iran had anticipated delivering a response by Friday or Saturday but deemed the ongoing strikes while the U.S. sought negotiations as “intolerable.”
The U.S. proposal, reportedly communicated via Pakistan, includes demands ranging from dismantling Iran’s nuclear and missile programs to relinquishing control over critical energy trade routes.
The conflict has had devastating effects across the Middle East, resulting in thousands of casualties and causing unprecedented disruptions to energy supplies. According to Maria Martinez of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, over 1,900 people have died in Iran, with at least 20,000 injured.
Military Assessments and Economic Impact
The United States aims to neutralize Iran’s long-range strike capabilities, with intelligence assessments indicating that approximately one-third of Iran’s missile arsenal has been destroyed. While another third may still be operational, some missiles are likely damaged or hidden in tunnels, which could be recovered post-conflict. Similar assessments suggest that about one-third of Iran’s drone capabilities may also have been compromised.
In the U.S., rising fuel prices pose a political challenge for President Trump, with diesel prices in California reaching an all-time high of $7.17 per gallon, according to the American Automobile Association.
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Published on 2026-03-28 01:16:00 • By the Editorial Desk
