In a letter to the United Nations, Tehran stated it does not seek to start a war. However, it made clear that if it faces military action, all facilities and bases linked to hostile forces in the region would be considered legitimate targets.
The warning follows reports that U.S. President Donald Trump is weighing possible air strikes on Iran. Washington has increased its military presence in West Asia, deploying advanced fighter jets, naval ships, and additional defensive systems in preparation for potential conflict.
Iran’s UN envoy, Amir Saeid Iravani, referred to recent remarks by Mr. Trump suggesting U.S. forces could operate from bases in Diego Garcia and Fairford during a confrontation. He cautioned that the risk of military aggression could destabilize the region and threaten global peace.
Tehran stressed that any response would fall under its right to self-defence as outlined in Article 51 of the UN Charter. It warned that the United States would bear responsibility for any uncontrolled consequences resulting from escalation.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei earlier warned that an attack on Iran could spark a wider regional war. Although both countries held two rounds of talks this month, no major progress was reported.
The United States currently maintains at least 19 military bases across West Asia. Key installations include the headquarters of the Fifth Fleet in Bahrain and the al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar, which serves as the forward headquarters of U.S. Central Command.
Iran has also accused Washington of violating international law, specifically Article 2(4) of the UN Charter, which prohibits threats or use of force against another state’s sovereignty. It urged the UN Security Council to act and press the United States to stop what it described as unlawful threats.
Meanwhile, Iran conducted a live-fire naval exercise in the southern Persian Gulf alongside Russian forces. Iranian officials said the drills aimed to enhance maritime security and strengthen operational coordination between the two navies.
As both sides increase military activity, tensions remain high, raising concerns about the possibility of a broader confrontation in the region.
