They already know.

Historically, Iran has been adept at highly sophisticated deception tactics, using fake personas and disguised information to lure opponents. From the false radio communication operations during the Iran-Iraq War in the 1980s to recent fake recruitment schemes, they excel at creating the very illusions their enemies desire to see.

China is currently tracking the movements of the U.S. Marine Corps.

Why?

China has invested heavily in Iran, and if they lose Iran, they lose their entire foothold in the Middle East. Russia, likewise, views Iran as indispensable.

The cooperative mid-level general currently in contact with the Trump administration is also highly likely to be an Iranian Trojan Horse designed to lure U.S. ground forces into a quagmire on the Iranian mainland.

If the U.S. Marine Corps takes this bait and enters actual combat, there will be numerous casualties within a pre-designed Kill Zone. On the other hand, if the Marines do not go, it will simply remain as one of Trump's many exaggerated statements, and no lives will be lost.

With the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, the burden of choice now lies solely with the United States and Israel.

The resource of time will belong to whoever holds the world economy by the throat.

The next options are these:

If the U.S. Marines engage in actual combat: Numerous casualties will occur. Oil prices will skyrocket. An explosive economic recession is forecasted.

If the U.S. Marines do not go: It was merely one of Trumps many lies. No casualties. Oil prices will rise gradually, leading to a slow-sinking economic recession.

They already know.

Grant mercy to those who have lost their way.