Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has warned that Tehran will target American military bases across the Middle East if the United States launches an attack, escalating tensions despite ongoing diplomatic efforts between the two nations.
Speaking on Saturday, Araghchi stated that any Iranian retaliation would focus exclusively on U.S. military installations and should not be interpreted as an attack on host countries where American forces are stationed. His remarks come amid reports of a recent increase in U.S. military presence in the region, heightening concerns about potential confrontation.
The warning follows announcements from both Tehran and Washington confirming the continuation of indirect negotiations regarding Iran’s nuclear program, with both sides reportedly describing recent talks as positive, according to Reuters.
In an interview with Al Jazeera, Araghchi said that a specific date for the next round of negotiations has not yet been finalized, although U.S. President Donald Trump suggested that discussions could resume as early as next week.
The renewed diplomatic engagement comes despite Trump’s earlier threats of a possible military strike against Iran, alongside efforts to strengthen the U.S. naval presence in the Middle East. Washington continues to demand that Tehran halt uranium enrichment, widely viewed by Western powers as a potential pathway toward nuclear weapons development. The United States has also urged Iran to stop developing ballistic missile programs and end support for armed groups across the region.
Iranian authorities, however, have consistently rejected accusations that they are seeking to develop nuclear weapons, maintaining that their nuclear program is for peaceful purposes. Tehran has also firmly opposed expanding negotiations beyond nuclear issues.
“Any dialogue requires restraint from threats and pressure. We are discussing exclusively our nuclear program with Washington. We are not negotiating with the United States on any other issues,” Araghchi emphasized.
Iran continues to insist on its right to enrich uranium, while warning that including its missile program in negotiations could leave the country vulnerable to potential Israeli military strikes, further complicating already fragile diplomatic efforts.
