Doha, Qatar. Iran would strike U.S. bases in the Middle East if attacked by U.S. forces, Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said on Saturday, adding that this should not be seen as an attack on the countries hosting those bases.
Warning tied to U.S. military buildup
Araqchi made the comments to Qatari Al Jazeera TV as the United States has built up naval forces in the region and U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened to strike Iran. Trump has demanded that Iran renounce uranium enrichment, stop ballistic missile development, and end support for armed groups around the region, while Tehran has long denied any intent to weaponise nuclear fuel production.
Indirect nuclear talks and timing of next round
Araqchi spoke a day after Tehran and Washington pledged to continue indirect nuclear talks following what both sides described as positive discussions on Friday in Oman. Araqchi said no date had been set for the next round, while Trump said they could take place early next week. “We and Washington believe it should be held soon,” Araqchi said.
Iran rejects expanding negotiations beyond nuclear issue
Araqchi said Iran would not broaden the scope of discussions with the United States. “Any dialogue requires refraining from threats and pressure. (Tehran) only discusses its nuclear issue … We do not discuss any other issue with the U.S.,” he said.
Reference to previous attacks and potential response
Araqchi referred to last June, when the United States bombed Iranian nuclear facilities in the final stages of a 12-day Israeli bombing campaign. Tehran has since said it has halted uranium enrichment activity. Iran’s response at the time included a missile attack on a U.S. base in Qatar, which maintains good relations with both Tehran and Washington. Araqchi said a new U.S. attack could bring similar consequences, adding: “It would not be possible to attack American soil, but we will target their bases in the region.”
How could the timing of the next round of indirect talks affect tensions in the region?