Watch | US boots on ground in Iran would be ‘major escalation’, warns Professor Mousavi

Escalation risks in West Asia are rising as the war between Israel and Iran nears a month, with Hamed Mousavi, Professor of Political Science at the University of Tehran, warning that any US ground offensive could significantly worsen the conflict.

“If the Americans do decide to put boots on the ground… it will be a major escalation of the war,” Mousavi told CNBC-TV18, adding that such a move could extend the conflict “perhaps into the summer” and risk strikes on civilian and energy infrastructure.

His remarks come amid reports that Donald Trump is weighing sending additional troops to the region, even as Washington claims talks with Tehran are progressing. Iran, however, has denied any negotiations. Mousavi said mistrust remains high, noting talks were ongoing when previous attacks took place. He added that US demands resemble a “complete capitulation” and are a “non-starter” for Tehran.

On the ground, the impact is worsening. Mousavi said there have been “a lot of civilian deaths” and people are increasingly worried, with nearly 2,000 fatalities reported. He also flagged risks to critical infrastructure, warning that targeting such assets would be “a very dangerous move” with far-reaching economic consequences.