Iran warns US ground operation would deepen escalation, threaten regional security

TEHRAN, Iran — Iran's Foreign Ministry said any U.S. ground operation on Iranian soil would amount to further escalation and carry severe consequences for regional and global security. Ministry spokesman Ismail Baghaei said the United States had undermined the diplomatic process through contradictory messages and by pursuing a course that violated the ceasefire. Speaking in Tehran on Wednesday, Baghaei said overnight events had shown that Iran's armed forces would not hesitate in defending the homeland, adding that the military would respond with determination to any adversary if required. He warned that a possible U.S. ground offensive would deepen escalation and produce serious repercussions for both regional and international security. The ministry statement said Iran would respond firmly to any military action targeting its sovereignty. No further details on the specific overnight incidents referenced by the spokesman were immediately available.