NYT: US fears Iran could use proxies to attack US targets abroad

The United States and its Western allies have expressed concern over a potential Iranian reaction if a large-scale military operation were launched against the republic.

According to The New York Times, citing officials from American and other Western security services, Tehran could call on its allied groups — including Hezbollah, Yemeni Houthi forces, and Al-Qaeda — to strike U.S. military bases and embassies in the Middle East and Europe.

At present, there is no evidence of active planning for such attacks. However, intelligence agencies report increased communications and coordination among pro-Iranian movements, which could indicate preparation for potential operations.

The Houthis may be mobilised to resume attacks on ships in the Red Sea, while sleeper cells of Hezbollah could target U.S. military bases or diplomatic missions, according to counterterrorism and intelligence officials. They also do not rule out the involvement of Al-Qaeda or its affiliates in any such plans.

Earlier, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned that the republic would have to defend itself and could strike back at U.S. military bases in the Middle East, though he did not specify concrete plans or the participation of Tehran-aligned forces.

By Khagan Isayev