The United States expects its military operation against Iran to conclude within weeks rather than months, with Washington confident it can achieve all objectives without deploying ground troops, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced Friday following meetings with G7 foreign ministers in France.
Speaking to reporters after the diplomatic gathering, Rubio indicated that the operation, which began February 28 with coordinated US-Israeli airstrikes that killed Iran's supreme leader and other senior officials, is proceeding according to plan. The conflict has now entered its second month amid growing international concerns about regional stability and global economic impacts.
We're on or ahead of schedule in that operation, and expect to conclude it at the appropriate time here - a matter of weeks, not months
Marco Rubio, US Secretary of State — France 24
Despite assurances that ground forces are unnecessary, the Pentagon has deployed significant military assets to the region. Two contingents of thousands of Marines are being dispatched, with the first expected to arrive by the end of March aboard amphibious assault ships. Elite airborne soldiers are also being positioned in the area, raising concerns among observers about potential escalation into prolonged ground combat.
Rubio explained the troop deployments as providing operational flexibility rather than indicating plans for ground invasion. The forces are intended to give President Donald Trump maximum options should circumstances change unexpectedly during the campaign.
France 24 provides straightforward reporting on Rubio's statements and G7 diplomatic response. The outlet emphasizes international coordination through the G7 declaration while noting concerns about escalation.
Dawn focuses on the military timeline and diplomatic efforts, highlighting both US confidence in achieving objectives and Iranian rejection of proposals. The coverage emphasizes regional stability concerns.
20minutos emphasizes the specific timeline of 2-4 weeks and Rubio's strong rhetoric about weakening Iran. The outlet highlights concerns about the Strait of Hormuz blockade and its global economic impact.
The conflict has severely disrupted global energy markets and trade routes, particularly through Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, through which approximately 20 percent of the world's oil passes. Iran's retaliatory strikes have targeted US and Israeli positions as well as civilian infrastructure in Gulf Arab nations, contributing to fears of broader economic recession.
Diplomatic efforts continue alongside military operations, with US special envoy Steve Witkoff expressing optimism about potential negotiations. Trump has extended a deadline for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz by ten days, while maintaining that talks are progressing positively despite Iranian denials of formal negotiations.
We think there will be meetings this week, we're certainly hopeful for it
Steve Witkoff, US Special Envoy — France 24
The G7 nations have adopted a joint declaration calling for an immediate halt to attacks against civilian populations and infrastructure. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot announced the coordinated international response as concerns mount over the humanitarian and economic consequences of the expanding conflict.
Washington has reportedly presented Iran with a comprehensive 15-point proposal addressing nuclear programs, missile capabilities, and control of strategic shipping lanes. Iranian officials have publicly rejected the terms while maintaining communication channels through third-party intermediaries, suggesting diplomatic avenues remain open despite the ongoing military campaign.