US President Donald Trump Warns of ‘Big Wave’ of Strikes on Iran and Won’t Rule Out Ground Troops

US President Donald Trump warned on Monday that a “big wave” of military strikes against Iran could be imminent, and he did not rule out sending American troops on the ground if needed. His comments came as joint United States-Israel operations continue against Iranian military targets.

Trump made his remarks while underlining that the current air campaign is still developing and might soon intensify. He also emphasized that the US remains open to all options, including ground force deployment.

Trump’s Direct Warnings to Iran

In the interview referenced, Trump said the United States could escalate its military campaign if Iran retaliates more forcefully. His warning followed several days of joint US-Israeli strikes targeting what American officials described as Iranian military infrastructure.

Posting on Truth Social, Trump added a stark message to Tehran: the US would strike with “a force that has never been seen before!” if Iran launched significant retaliation.

Ground Troops Not Ruled Out

Trump’s comments echoed Pentagon signals that while no American ground troops are currently in Iran, their future deployment is not off the table.

US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth refused to rule out troop deployment, saying the Pentagon is prepared to consider all options to achieve US objectives. “We’re not going to go into the exercise of what we will or will not do,” Hegseth said.

General Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, also noted that US operations are ongoing and could extend if deemed necessary by military leadership.

Ongoing Military Operations

The conflict escalated late last week when the United States and Israel began extensive airstrikes against Iran, described by officials as part of a broader strategy to degrade Tehran’s military and strategic capabilities. This offensive followed months of heightened diplomatic tension and proxy engagements across the region.

The campaign, dubbed Operation Epic Fury by some outlets, has struck Iranian military sites and leadership infrastructure. Iranian sources report that these attacks have resulted in significant casualties and damage to critical facilities.

Regional Spillover and Retaliation

Iran has retaliated against the US and its allies with missile and drone strikes across the Middle East, targeting American positions and partner nations. Multiple fronts, including Lebanon, Bahrain, Kuwait, and the Gulf states, have seen heightened activity in recent days.

Officials in Tehran have expressed defiance, with some Iranian leaders vowing continued resistance against what they call foreign aggression.

Global Concerns and Market Impact

The conflict’s expansion has rattled global markets, particularly energy prices, as shipping lanes like the Strait of Hormuz remain volatile due to military movements and rising tensions. Financial analysts warn that prolonged conflict could further disrupt trade and energy stability.

US Lawmakers Raise Strategic Questions

Back in Washington, lawmakers from both political parties expressed concern about the lack of a clear long-term plan following Trump’s announcements and initial strikes. Some legislators cautioned that open-ended operations without defined goals could embroil the United States in a prolonged conflict.

Democrats and Republicans alike noted the risk of escalation if diplomatic avenues remain underdeveloped, stressing the need for careful oversight.