The government of Iran has called on countries across the Middle East to expel American military forces from their territories, warning that bases used to launch attacks against Iran could become targets in the escalating regional conflict.
Iranian officials said the presence of United States troops in neighboring states has enabled Washington to carry out military operations against Iranian territory during the ongoing war involving Israel.
In a statement, Iranian military leaders and the foreign Affairs Minister Abbas Aragchi urged regional governments to reconsider hosting US forces, arguing that American bases have become part of the battlefield.
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Iran said that countries allowing their territory to be used for military strikes could face consequences as the conflict intensifies. However, officials stressed that Iran’s retaliation would focus on U.S. military installations rather than the host nations themselves.
Several countries in the region host major American military facilities, including Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.
These installations support U.S. air, naval and intelligence operations across the region.
Iran’s call comes amid a widening conflict between Tehran and the U.S.–Israel alliance, with missile strikes, drone attacks, and air raids reported across several Middle Eastern countries in recent days.
Iranian leaders argue that the continued presence of American troops in the region fuels instability and increases the risk of a broader war.
Analysts say Tehran’s appeal is aimed at pressuring Gulf states to distance themselves from Washington and remain neutral in the conflict.
The move also reflects Iran’s long-standing demand that the United States withdraw its military forces from the Middle East, a position that Iranian leaders say is necessary for lasting regional security.