Iran Issues Military Challenge to US Amid Escalating Tensions

Iran has once again issued an open challenge to the United States. The Iranian military has released a 59-second video showing commandos ready to take on American troops. The video shows combat drills of soldiers with sharp editing, soldiers advancing through rugged terrain, and a missile fired from a missile launcher. The main message of the video is "Come closer, we are waiting for you." The Iranian military claimed that it is fully prepared to confront and defeat American troops. The video was released via Press TV. On the other hand, the United States is further strengthening its military footprint in the Middle East. The White House said that the deployment of additional troops gives President Donald Trump maximum options. White House Press Secretary Carolyn Leavitt reported that the Pentagon's job is to provide strategic flexibility to the president, while diplomatic efforts continue. The USS Tripoli, a large ship with about 3,500 Marines and Central American troops, is the largest amphibious assault ship in the region. Iran is also planning a long-range amphibious assault.