Iran has warned the United States against deploying ground troops to its territory, escalating tensions amid ongoing regional conflict. The warning came from Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh on March 16, 2026, as reported by CCTV International and other news outlets.
Khatibzadeh stated that deploying troops to another country and occupying its territory is “very wrong and reckless, and is illegal.” He added that the United States acts with impunity because “power has gone to their heads.” The development underscores growing regional instability and the potential for wider conflict.
“Those who launch this war, who invade Iran, must immediately stop this illegal, reckless and rogue behavior,” Khatibzadeh said, adding that Iran “has no choice but to repel and counterattack those who launch this aggression.”
Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian echoed this sentiment during a press conference in Tehran on March 16, emphasizing that while Iran is not currently seeking a ceasefire, any finish to hostilities must guarantee that “aggression” does not reoccur.
Parliament Speaker Mohammad-Bagheri Kalibaaf as well addressed the possibility of a ceasefire, stating that it would only be reasonable if it ensured hostilities would not resume. He cautioned against a ceasefire simply to allow adversaries to regroup and rearm, referencing potential needs to repair damaged radar systems or replenish missile stocks before launching further attacks. NetEase News reported Kalibaaf’s comments.
Kalibaaf asserted that Iran is prepared for a prolonged conflict, anticipating potential attacks. He dismissed claims that the U.S. Could “destroy Iran’s offensive capabilities,” stating that Iran possesses sufficient missile and drone reserves, produced with autonomous technology at a higher efficiency and lower cost than enemy interception systems. This announcement could influence future diplomatic talks and regional security assessments.
According to Yicai, Khatibzadeh also warned that “power has made America dizzy.”
