U.S. evaluates military objectives in Iran following G7 talks

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated on Friday that the current military operation against Iran, initiated by the U.S. and Israel last month, is on or ahead of schedule. Rubio asserted that the U.S. can achieve its objectives, which include dismantling Iran’s missile, drone, naval, and air force capabilities, without deploying ground troops. Despite this claim, the U.S. is moving thousands of Marines and elite airborne soldiers to the region to provide President Donald Trump with maximum operational flexibility. The first contingent of Marines is expected to arrive via amphibious assault ship by late March. While Rubio noted that the operation is expected to conclude in weeks rather than months, he emphasized the necessity for other nations to assist in securing the Strait of Hormuz. Regarding diplomacy, the U.S. claims to have sent a 15-point proposal to Tehran and is awaiting a formal response. Conversely, Iranian authorities have repeatedly denied that any such formal negotiations are currently underway.