In a statement posted on X, Ghalibaf said Iran was “closely monitoring all US movements in the region, especially troop deployments,” and cautioned Washington against escalating tensions.

“What the generals have broken, the soldiers can’t fix; instead, they will fall victim to Benjamin Netanyahu’s delusions,” he said. “Do not test our resolve to defend our land.”

His remarks came amid reports of a growing US military presence in the region.

According to The Associated Press, more than 1,000 troops from the 82nd Airborne Division are being deployed to the Middle East.

The deployment adds to the movement of two marine units, which are expected to bring around 5,000 marines and thousands of sailors to the region, signalling a further buildup as tensions continue to rise.