US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that military operations against Iran are expected to conclude within weeks. He emphasized that these objectives can be met without ground troops but acknowledged deployment for maximum optionality.
Rubio discussed with G7 foreign ministers the possibility of Iran imposing shipping tolls through the Strait of Hormuz post-conflict, urging European and Asian countries to contribute to securing free passage.
Two contingents of Marines are set to arrive in late March. The Pentagon is also expected to deploy thousands of elite airborne soldiers, raising concerns about a prolonged ground battle.
Iran’s response has disrupted global trade, raising fears of rising prices and recession. US special envoy Steve Witkoff expressed hope for meetings with Iran within a week and expects an Iranian response soon to his 15-point proposal for ending the war, including no uranium enrichment by Iran.