'Come close, we are waiting for you': Iran signals warning as US expands military options in Middle East

The 59-second clip features a rapid montage of Iranian commandos conducting combat drills, moving through rugged terrain, and operating in full battle gear. It also includes footage of a missile launcher firing, followed by large explosions.

The video ends with a stark message: “Come close, we are waiting for you.”

The release comes amid escalating tensions between Iran and the United States.

Meanwhile, the White House said the deployment of additional American troops to the Middle East is intended to give President Donald Trump “maximum optionality” as the conflict unfolds, even as diplomatic efforts with Tehran continue behind the scenes.

Speaking at a press briefing, Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized that the troop movements are part of a broader strategy to maintain flexibility on the ground.

She noted that the Pentagon’s role is to ensure the commander-in-chief has a full range of military options while pursuing the objectives of “Operation Epic Fury.”

According to a report by The Washington Post, the Pentagon is also preparing contingency plans for a prolonged military engagement in Iran, potentially involving weeks of ground operations if the conflict intensifies.

Officials cited in the report said any such action would likely avoid a full-scale invasion, instead focusing on targeted raids by special operations forces supported by conventional infantry units.

In a parallel development, the USS Tripoli, carrying around 3,500 Marines and soldiers, has entered the US Central Command’s area of operations, significantly boosting America’s military presence in the region.