Iran warns Gulf states amid renewed U.S.–Iran tensions

Iran has issued a stern warning to Arab states in the Gulf, cautioning that they could face retaliatory strikes for hosting U.S. military bases on their soil. The statement comes after four consecutive days of American airstrikes on Iranian territory, which Tehran denounced as “aggressive acts.”

In response, Iran launched missile and drone attacks targeting U.S. installations in Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman. The Iranian Foreign Ministry declared that Gulf nations must not allow their territories to become “launchpads for unlawful wars.”

Spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei insisted Iran’s actions were legitimate self‑defense under international law, framing the strikes as protective measures rather than offensive aggression.

UN Secretary‑General António Guterres urged all parties to exercise restraint and adopt immediate measures to de‑escalate tensions. His call reflects growing concern that renewed clashes could destabilize the wider Middle East.