Iran Vows to Target US Bases Over Nuclear Attacks

In a major escalation of the ongoing Middle East conflict, Iran has explicitly warned it may attack U.S. military bases across the region in retaliation for recent U.S. airstrikes targeting its nuclear facilities. Tehran's top defense officials and the Supreme Leader have issued stern threats, raising the potential for a broader confrontation between the two countries.

• Iranian warning: All U.S. military bases in the Middle East are now considered “legitimate targets” following Washington’s strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites.

• Targets in danger: Bases in Iraq, Bahrain, Qatar, UAE, and possibly outside the region are within Iran’s strategic reach.

• Iran’s official stance: Defence Minister Brig. Gen. Aziz Nasirzadeh and Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei issued warnings of full retaliation if the strikes continue.

• Recent U.S. action: The U.S. launched munitions and bunker-buster bombs at Iranian nuclear centers in Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan, claiming significant damage.

• Escalation risk: Tehran also hinted at potential disruption of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and cyber or asymmetric attacks.

• U.S. strike details: Up to 75 precision munitions, including bunker-busters and Tomahawks, were used. President Trump called it a “spectacular military success.” 

• Iran’s response plan: Tehran says it may strike U.S. bases in Iraq, Bahrain, Qatar, UAE, and threaten even U.S. bases farther abroad—an escalation echoing threats from Defense Minister Nasirzadeh earlier this month.

• Al-Asad (Iraq), al-Udeid (Qatar), Naval Support Activity Bahrain, al-Dhafra (UAE) — all are publicly acknowledged as within Iran's range.

• Threats extend to aircraft carriers and possible overseas bases if they are used to launch future attacks on Iran.

Iran has said it could deploy naval mines or restrict shipping through the Strait of Hormuz if further strikes happen.

Closing this strait would severely disrupt 20% of the world’s seaborne oil traffic and sharply increase global energy prices.

Defence Minister Nasirzadeh:

“All U.S. bases are within our reach, and if conflict is forced on us, we will target them boldly.” 

Supreme Leader Khamenei and senior officials warned of “irreparable damage” and “all‑out war” if the U.S. continues attacks. 

Iranian military spokesperson Ebrahim Zolfaqari:

“Mr Trump, the gambler… you may start this war, but we will be the ones to end it.”

U.S. reaction: The Pentagon has strengthened defenses around troop locations and carriers. President Trump publicly called for Iran’s surrender but did not rule out further strikes.

• Gulf states like Saudi Arabia, UAE, Bahrain, and Kuwait have raised military alert levels and issued advisories. Some have moved government staff to safer areas.

• U.S. Department of Homeland Security cautioned of increased threats and potential cyberattacks or extremist violence at home.

• Missile or drone strikes: Iran could target U.S. bases in Iraq, Gulf states, or in international waters.

• Strait blockade: Any disruption could send global oil prices soaring and risk drawing in U.S. forces.

• Asymmetric warfare: Expect cyber attacks, proxy militia operations, or sabotage in Syria or Iraq.

• Escalation spiral: Any U.S. retaliation could provoke another Iranian strike, raising conflict intensity.

• Diplomatic clash: U.N., EU, and global leaders are pushing urgently for restraint and negotiation.

Iran’s declaration to treat all U.S. bases as legitimate military targets marks a dangerous expansion of this conflict, turning it from a regional skirmish into a multi-front confrontation. With threats ranging from military outposts and shipping lanes to economic disruption and homeland security, vigilance, restraint, and urgent diplomacy are more crucial than ever.