Iran warns neighbors it could strike US bases
Iran has warned several neighboring countries that it could target US military bases in the region if Washington intervenes in the ongoing protests inside Iran, according to diplomatic sources and regional officials.
The warning underscores the risk of a wider regional crisis as Iran faces its most serious internal unrest in years and accuses the United States of encouraging or supporting the demonstrations.
Messages sent to regional capitals
According to officials familiar with the matter, Tehran delivered messages to governments hosting US forces, including states in the Gulf, cautioning them against allowing their territory to be used for any action against Iran.
Iranian officials reportedly said that any direct US involvement would be viewed as a hostile act, and that American bases in neighboring countries would be considered legitimate targets in such a scenario.
The United States maintains military facilities across the Middle East, including in Iraq, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. These bases support air, naval, and ground operations and are central to US regional posture.
Protests drive sharp rhetoric
The warnings come as protests continue in multiple Iranian cities, driven by economic pressure, political grievances, and public anger over governance issues. Iranian authorities have blamed foreign actors, particularly the United States, for fueling unrest.
Washington has denied directing or organizing protests, stating publicly that it supports the right of Iranians to peaceful assembly and free expression.
US officials have also said they are not seeking military confrontation with Iran, though they continue to impose sanctions and criticize Tehran over human rights and regional activities.
Regional security implications
For Gulf states and Iraq, the Iranian warning highlights a familiar dilemma. Many host US forces for their own security while also seeking to avoid being drawn into a direct conflict between Washington and Tehran.
Past crises have shown how quickly tensions can spill over. US bases in Iraq have previously come under rocket and drone attacks during periods of heightened US Iran friction, often attributed by Washington to Iran backed groups.
Defense analysts say even indirect threats raise operational and political risks for host nations, particularly as regional air defense systems remain under strain from drones and missiles.
US posture unchanged for now
There has been no public indication that the United States plans to intervene militarily in Iran’s internal situation. US military posture in the region remains focused on force protection, maritime security, and deterrence.
Still, the Iranian warning adds another layer of strain to an already volatile security environment, with multiple flashpoints across the Middle East and limited channels for de escalation.
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