US House Speaker Mike Johnson has warned that Iran should take the recent increase in American military deployment in the Middle East seriously, describing it as a firm strategic signal rather than a step toward direct ground war.
Speaking on Wednesday, Johnson claimed that the ongoing conflict with Iran is “nearing its end” and that key objectives of the operation have largely been achieved. He clarified that increasing troop presence in the region does not equate to direct engagement in combat, emphasizing that the United States has no immediate intention of launching a ground invasion.
Despite mounting military pressure from both the United States and Israel, Iran has signaled it will not back down. As Israeli airstrikes reportedly target areas in Tehran and Washington continues deploying paratroopers and Marines to the region, Tehran has rejected a 15-point ceasefire proposal reportedly sent via Pakistan.
According to Iran’s state-run English-language broadcaster Press TV, an unnamed official stated that Iran would only end the war based on its own decisions and conditions. The official further warned that Tehran’s “strong retaliatory actions” would continue across the Middle East.
In response to the US proposal, Iran has outlined a five-point counter-plan. The demands include an end to targeted killings of Iranian officials, guarantees against future military aggression, compensation for war damages, cessation of hostilities, and recognition of Iran’s sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz.
The situation remains tense, with diplomatic efforts stalled and military activities intensifying, raising concerns about broader regional instability.
