Iran says it will strike US bases in the region, if US attack
CAIRO: Iran has warned that it would target U.S. military bases in the Middle East if American forces launch an attack, Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said Saturday. He emphasized that such action should not be interpreted as an attack on the countries hosting U.S. troops.
Araqchi made the remarks during an interview with Qatari Al Jazeera TV, a day after Iran and the United States pledged to continue indirect nuclear negotiations following what both sides described as positive discussions in Oman.
While no date has yet been set for the next round of talks, U.S. President Donald Trump said negotiations could take place early next week. “We and Washington believe it should be held soon,” Araqchi said.
Trump has threatened Iran after a U.S. naval buildup in the region, demanding Tehran halt uranium enrichment—a potential pathway to nuclear weapons—stops ballistic missile development, and end support for armed groups across the Middle East.
Iran has long denied any intention to weaponize nuclear fuel production, insisting its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes.
Despite signs of renewed diplomacy, Araqchi rejected broadening negotiations beyond nuclear issues. “Any dialogue requires refraining from threats and pressure. We only discuss our nuclear issue with the U.S.—no other matters,” he said.
Araqchi referenced last June when the U.S. bombed Iranian nuclear facilities, joining the final stages of a 12-day Israeli air campaign. Tehran later announced it had halted uranium enrichment activity.
Iran’s response included a missile strike on a U.S. base in Qatar, a nation that maintains good relations with both Tehran and Washington.
“If the U.S. attacks again, we will target their bases in the region,” Araqchi said. “We will not attack neighboring countries; rather, we will strike U.S. installations stationed there. There is a big difference between the two.”
Tehran wants international acknowledgment of its right to enrich uranium. Officials warn that negotiating limits on its missile program could leave Iran vulnerable to potential attacks by Israel.
