Iran warned it would strike United States military bases across the Middle East if attacked, as indirect nuclear talks with Washington resumed amid a heightened U.S. military presence in the region.
The warning came as officials from both sides described recent mediated discussions in Oman as positive, even as mutual threats and mistrust continued to shape the diplomatic environment.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said any retaliation would target U.S. facilities rather than host countries, stressing that Tehran did not seek conflict with its neighbours.
The latest talks in Muscat followed months of escalating tension after U.S. forces joined Israel in bombing Iranian nuclear facilities last June during a 12-day war.
Iran has since said it halted uranium enrichment, while insisting on its right to resume civilian-level enrichment as part of any future agreement.
Araghchi described the Oman discussions as a “good start” and said further rounds would be considered after consultations with both governments.
U.S. President Donald Trump also characterized the talks as productive and suggested another meeting could take place soon, while warning of severe consequences if no deal is reached.
Despite the diplomatic engagement, Trump has maintained demands that Iran abandon uranium enrichment entirely, curb its ballistic missile program, and end support for allied armed groups in the region.
Iranian officials have rejected expanding the agenda beyond nuclear issues, arguing that additional concessions would leave the country exposed to military threats.
The U.S. has bolstered its military posture by deploying a supercarrier, additional warships, and aircraft near Iranian waters, and by strengthening defenses at regional bases.
Iran has responded by signaling military readiness, including the recent unveiling of a Khorramshahr-4 ballistic missile by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
Araghchi warned that in the event of a new attack, “It would not be possible to attack American soil, but we will target their bases in the region.”
Iran has pointed to its past missile strike on a U.S. base in Qatar as a precedent, while reiterating that it does not intend to attack neighbouring states.
As diplomatic efforts continue, the parallel buildup of military forces underscores the fragile balance between negotiation and confrontation.