The U.S. military is planning a ground attack, Iran warns of retaliation, and Pakistan intends to mediate.

Mars Finance reports that on March 30, a U.S. official stated that by early next week, there will be sufficient military forces to execute significant ground operations against Iran. Meanwhile, another U.S. official commented on whether ground operations will be launched and what actions would be taken if they are: all options are being considered. Israeli Channel 12 reported on March 29 local time, citing anonymous security sources, that Israel plans to “invite the U.S. to relocate some of its military bases in the Middle East to Israel and establish new bases in Israel” after the current war ends. The report stated that Israel believes the current moment is an opportunity to “reshape” the U.S. military landscape in the Middle East. Recently, Israel has demonstrated its “value as a core ally of the U.S.” - “Israel not only provides stability but also offers critical operational and intelligence capabilities, and establishing military bases in Israel will create strategic advantages for both parties.” On March 29 local time, a spokesperson for the Iranian Armed Forces’ Khatam al-Anbiya Central Command stated that in response to recent attacks, Iran will target the residences of military commanders and political figures related to the U.S. and Israel. The spokesperson noted that this move is a retaliatory measure against the attacks on Iranian residential areas by the relevant parties. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Baghaei stated that the suggestions submitted to Iran by the U.S. through intermediaries are extremely extreme and unreasonable. Pakistan announced last Sunday that it is preparing to host “meaningful talks” in the coming days to end the conflict surrounding Iran. Nevertheless, Tehran has previously accused the U.S. of seeking negotiations while planning a ground offensive. The U.S. State Department and the White House have not yet responded to requests for talks that may take place in Pakistan. Informed sources said that preliminary discussions among Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Egypt are focused on proposals to restart shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.