Iran Warns: US Bases in Middle East Targeted if America Attacks

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has issued a stern warning, stating that any US attack on Iran will trigger retaliatory strikes against American military bases across the Middle East.

However, he emphasized a crucial distinction: such strikes should be viewed as actions against the US military, not as attacks on the host nations where those bases are located.

These remarks were made during an interview with Al Jazeera on Friday (February 6), following a day of positive nuclear talks between Tehran and Washington.

Key Takeaways from Foreign Minister Araghchi

Dialogue vs. Threats: Araghchi stressed that effective dialogue requires an environment free from threats and pressure. He clarified that Tehran is strictly negotiating on nuclear issues and will not discuss other matters with the US.

Targeting Logic: "We do not have the capability to attack the American mainland, but we will target their bases in this region," Araghchi stated. "We will not attack our neighbors; we will target the US bases located in their countries. There is a major difference between the two."

Next Steps in Diplomacy: While a specific date for the next round of talks hasn't been set, US President Donald Trump has signaled that negotiations could resume as early as next week. Both sides reportedly agree that meetings should happen sooner rather than later.

The Standoff: Trump's Demands and Iran's "Inalienable Right"
The regional tension has escalated as President Donald Trump recently bolstered US military presence in the Middle East and threatened strikes. The Trump administration's demands are clear:

• Cease Uranium Enrichment: Abandon the path to potential nuclear weapons.
• Halt Missile Development: Stop the advancement of ballistic missile programs.
• End Proxy Support: Terminate support for armed groups throughout the region.
• Iran's Position: Tehran maintains that its nuclear program is for peaceful energy purposes. Araghchi asserted that uranium enrichment is an "inalienable right" that will continue. "Even through bombardment, they could not destroy our capabilities," he said, though he noted Iran is ready to reach a "comfortable agreement" regarding enrichment levels.

Context: A Cycle of Escalation
The current friction follows a volatile period starting last June, when Israel launched strikes on Iranian nuclear sites. Tehran responded with missile strikes on Israel, leading to a joint US-Israeli operation against Iranian facilities.

In retaliation for US involvement, Iranian forces previously targeted a US base in Qatar—a move Araghchi warned would be repeated if new attacks occur.