Iran vows to target US military bases if conflict erupts

As Iran and the United States prepare for a critical sixth round of nuclear talks, Iranian Defence Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh issued a stark warning on June 11, threatening to target American military bases across the region if diplomatic efforts collapse and conflict ensues.

"Some officials on the other side threaten conflict if negotiations don't come to fruition. If a conflict is imposed on us... all US bases are within our reach and we will boldly target them in host countries," Nasirzadeh declared during a press conference, underscoring Tehran’s readiness to respond decisively to any hostile action, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

The upcoming negotiations, scheduled to occur this week, remain fraught with tension. US President Donald Trump has repeatedly signaled a willingness to employ military force against Iran should a new nuclear deal fail to materialize. While Trump indicated the talks would take place on June 12, Iranian officials have stated they are set for June 15 in Oman.

Iran is expected to submit a counter-proposal to the previous US offer, which Tehran had rejected. Reacting to this development, Trump commented that Iran is adopting a "much more aggressive" posture in the ongoing discussions.

In addition to verbal warnings, Nasirzadeh revealed that Tehran recently tested a missile capable of carrying a two-ton warhead, emphasizing that Iran "does not accept limitations" on its military capabilities. This stance aligns with directives from Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who in February affirmed the necessity for Iran to advance its military strength, including its missile program.

By Vafa Guliyeva