Iran's Supreme National Security Council Secretary, Ali Larijani, has issued a stern warning to the United States against any attempt to invade Iranian territory by land. This statement comes amid joint US-Israeli strikes on Tehran and other Iranian cities, which resulted in the death of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, as well as members of his family and senior military officials. Iran has responded to these strikes with missile and drone attacks targeting Israel and US interests in the region.
Larijani asserted that the Iranian armed forces are fully prepared to confront any American incursion. "Some American officials have stated that they intend to enter Iranian territory on the ground with several thousand troops," he said on the X platform, adding that Iran's "valiant armed forces" were waiting for the US troops. He also warned that Iranian soil was not a place for "devils" to dance, suggesting that US forces would suffer a humiliating defeat.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi struck a similarly firm tone, stressing that Iran is prepared to confront a potential US ground invasion. He accused the United States and Israel of being responsible for the deaths of civilians and rejected calls for a ceasefire. Araghchi insisted that Iran's objective in the current conflict is simply to resist what it considers to be illegal actions against his country.
These statements come as tensions between Iran and the United States have escalated since the beginning of 2026, particularly due to the Iranian nuclear program and anti-government protests. The United States has increased its military presence in the region, raising concerns about a possible escalation. Indirect negotiations took place in February 2026, but disagreements persist, particularly on the Iranian nuclear program, the ballistic missile program, and support for regional groups.
The situation remains tense, with ongoing attacks and counter-attacks between Iran and its adversaries. Iran appears determined to defend its territory and retaliate against any aggression, while the United States has not ruled out a ground military intervention. The international community is calling for de-escalation and a resumption of negotiations to avoid an open war with potentially disastrous consequences.
The WHO has recorded 13 attacks on health infrastructure in Iran and one in Lebanon in the context of the current conflict. UNHCR and Cameroon are strengthening their cooperation in the face of the refugee situation, a sign that the conflict is impacting populations and requires a coordinated humanitarian response.
