Iran threatens to hit Gulf states if US launches new strikes

Iran's foreign ministry warned on Tuesday that any new U.S. strikes against Iranian targets would be met with attacks on Gulf states that host American forces. The statement came after Washington signaled a possible expansion of its recent limited strikes on Iranian-linked facilities in Iraq and Syria, which were carried out in response to a series of drone attacks on U.S. bases. Iran said the Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, are complicit because they allow U.S. troops and equipment to operate from their territory. The U.S. Department of Defense said it is monitoring the threat and remains committed to protecting freedom of navigation in the region, while urging all parties to avoid further escalation. The United Nations called for restraint, noting that any widening of the conflict could jeopardise regional security and global oil supplies. Analysts caution that a direct Iranian strike on Gulf ports or military sites could trigger a rapid chain reaction, pulling more nations into the fight and disrupting shipping lanes. The next few days will likely determine whether diplomatic channels can de‑escalate the situation or whether both sides move toward broader military action.