TEHRAN, Iran: Iran has mobilised more than one million fighters for a possible ground battle with the United States, according to a report by Iran’s semi-official Tasnim news agency, amid diplomatic efforts to end the conflict.
Tasnim, citing an unnamed Iranian military source, reported on Thursday that the forces had been organised and were prepared for battle amid growing speculation about a possible US ground operation, particularly along Iran’s southern front near the Strait of Hormuz.
Over A Million Iranian Combatants Organized for Ground Battle with UShttps://t.co/BntzneVgRy pic.twitter.com/Vib7Py4P47
— Tasnim News Agency (@Tasnimnews_EN) March 26, 2026
The military source said there had been a surge in enlistment requests from Iranian youth seeking to join the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), the Basij paramilitary force, and the regular army.
“A wave of enthusiasm has formed among Iranian fighters on the ground to create a historic challenge for the Americans on Iranian soil,” the source was quoted as saying.
The source warned that any attempt by the United States to intervene militarily or reopen the Strait of Hormuz by force would be met with strong resistance.
“The United States wants to open the strait by suicide… we are ready to carry out their strategy and keep the Strait closed,” the source added as quoted by Tasnim news agency.
US boosts military readiness
The report comes as the Pentagon has ordered the deployment of around 2,000 troops from the US Army’s 82nd Airborne Division to the Middle East, according to US defence officials cited by The New York Times.
The troops are part of the division’s Immediate Response Force, capable of rapid deployment within hours.
Officials, cited by The New York Times, said the move is intended to provide US President Donald Trump with additional military options as the conflict evolves.
At the same time, Washington has been pursuing a diplomatic track.
US officials confirmed that a 15-point proposal has been shared with Tehran through Pakistan, outlining conditions for ending the conflict, including curbs on Iran’s nuclear programme and missile capabilities.
US sees ‘strong signs’ of Iran deal
US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff said during a cabinet meeting that there were “strong signs” Iran could be persuaded to reach a deal, but acknowledged that Tehran had so far resisted key demands.
He added that Iranian officials had indicated they possess sufficient enriched uranium to produce multiple nuclear weapons.
Meanwhile, Iranian media reported that Tehran has formally submitted its response to a 15-point proposal presented by the US.
According to Iranian state media, Tehran delivered its reply overnight through intermediaries and is now awaiting Washington’s response.
Pakistan facilitating indirect US-Iran talks
Earlier today, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said that indirect talks between the United States and Iran are ongoing through messages relayed by Islamabad.
“There has been unnecessary speculation in the media… In reality, US-Iran indirect talks are taking place through messages being relayed by Pakistan,” Dar said in a post on X, adding that Washington had shared a 15-point proposal now under consideration by Tehran.
He said countries including Turkiye and Egypt were also supporting the diplomatic initiative, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to promoting peace and stability in the region.
“Pakistan remains fully committed to promoting peace and continues to make every effort to ensure stability in the region and beyond,” Dar said.
“Dialogue and diplomacy is the only way forward,” he said.
There has been unnecessary speculation in the media regarding peace talks to end ongoing conflict in the Middle East. In reality, US-Iran indirect talks are taking place through messages being relayed by Pakistan. In this context, the United States has shared 15 points, being…
— Ishaq Dar (@MIshaqDar50) March 26, 2026
US President Donald Trump has intensified pressure on Tehran, warning it to agree to a deal or face continued military action. He claimed Iran’s military capabilities had been significantly degraded during the conflict.
