Iran is preparing for a potential ground confrontation amid the deployment of large numbers of US Marines and airborne troops to the Middle East, The Wall Street Journal reports, citing analysts and sources familiar with Iranian military strategy.

According to the publication, Tehran is launching mobilization efforts modeled on the Iran-Iraq war of the 1980s. This includes large-scale recruitment campaigns involving broad segments of the population, as well as the promotion of narratives centered on martyrdom.

Earlier, retired US Army Colonel Douglas Macgregor stated that Iran is preparing for a possible US ground operation. In his assessment, Washington is underestimating Iran’s readiness. He also pointed to US limitations in infrastructure and the ability to securely deploy troops to potential landing areas.