Iran has issued a stark warning to the United States and its regional allies, saying it would target American military bases across the Middle East should Washington take military action under the guise of supporting anti-government protests, diplomatic sources said on Wednesday.

A senior Iranian official, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Reuters that Tehran had communicated the threat to countries hosting U.S. forces — including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Türkiye — urging them to dissuade the United States from intervening in Iran’s domestic unrest.

The warning intensifies already high tensions between the two nations, following repeated statements from U.S. President Donald Trump that Washington might take “very strong action” if Iranian security forces continue to violently suppress nationwide protests.

Crackdown And Unrest — Context of the Warning

The protests erupted several weeks ago amid deep economic despair, with demonstrations over inflation and unemployment rapidly evolving into widespread anti-government rallies. Rights groups and officials report thousands of deaths in the crackdown — marking the most severe unrest since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

Iranian authorities have responded with heavy tactics, including internet blackouts that severely restrict outside information flow and tough judicial measures in detention facilities. The government has labelled dissenters as “terrorists” and blamed external forces for stoking unrest.

U.S. Concerns and Precautionary Moves

In recent days, U.S. military officials have taken precautionary measures. Several diplomats reported that some personnel at the Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar were advised to temporarily depart amid escalating tensions — although this was described as a posture adjustment rather than a full evacuation.

U.S. and UK forces are also reported to have withdrawn some personnel from regional postings in response to the heightened threat environment, underscoring concern over possible military confrontation.

Diplomacy and Communications Breakdown

Officials revealed that direct diplomatic communication between Tehran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi and U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff has been suspended, reflecting the deepening strain between Washington and Tehran. Iran’s leadership insists that any foreign interference would constitute a violation of sovereignty.

Qatari and Emirati authorities have acknowledged engagement with Iranian officials as efforts persist to calm regional partners and avert a broader security crisis.

Regional Implications and Global Response

Middle Eastern governments hosting U.S. forces find themselves at the center of a potential flashpoint. Analysts say Iran’s message aims to deter U.S. military involvement by raising the costs of direct confrontation. Tehran’s threat notably places American bases on sovereign soil of allied nations at risk, complicating diplomatic relations with Gulf states.

Meanwhile, Western capitals remain cautious. An unnamed Israeli official noted that discussions about potential scenarios, including regime collapse or foreign intervention in Iran, have been briefed to security cabinets — though no consensus on action has been reached.

Local Narrative and Official Iranian Position

Iran’s leadership asserts that it is defending national sovereignty against external meddling. State media quoted security officials describing Tehran’s stance as resolute, with repeated calls for internal unity and resistance to perceived foreign interference.

The Iranian chief justice has emphasised swift judicial proceedings for those accused of violence during protests, framing the crackdown as necessary to restore order.

Analyst View

Security analysts say the developments underscore the risk of the Middle East sliding into a wider military confrontation. They warn that messaging from both Tehran and Washington could quickly shift from deterrence to engagement if miscalculations occur. Regional diplomatic channels are reportedly under intense strain as allies attempt to prevent an escalation from rhetoric to conflict.