Iran Threatens US Bases in Middle East if Attacked: Foreign Minister

Tensions between the United States and Iran escalated on Saturday, February 17, 2026, as Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned of potential attacks on U.S. Bases in the Middle East should the U.S. Initiate military action against Iran. This declaration arrives amid ongoing, albeit indirect, negotiations regarding Iran’s nuclear programme.

A Measured Response

According to Minister Araghchi, any Iranian response would be carefully calibrated. “It is not possible to attack American soil, but we will attack their bases in the region,” he stated in an interview with Al Jazeera. He emphasized a distinction between targeting U.S. Forces stationed in the region versus attacking the United States directly, clarifying that Iran would not target neighboring countries hosting these bases.

Negotiations and Threats

This warning followed a day of positive signals regarding renewed indirect nuclear talks between Tehran and Washington, held in Oman. While no date has been set for the next round of discussions, U.S. President Donald Trump indicated a potential meeting early the following week. “We and Washington believe it should be held soon,” Araghchi said.

Did You Know? The statement from Minister Araghchi came just one day after both Iran and the U.S. Committed to continuing indirect nuclear negotiations.

Sticking Points in Negotiations

The backdrop to these discussions is a history of escalating tensions. President Trump has previously threatened military action against Iran and increased U.S. Military presence in the Middle East, demanding Iran cease uranium enrichment, halt ballistic missile development, and end support for regional militant groups. Iran maintains it has no intention of developing nuclear weapons.

Despite a willingness to resume diplomatic efforts, Minister Araghchi firmly stated that negotiations would be limited to the nuclear issue. “Any discussion must be without threats and pressure,” he said. “Tehran will only discuss the nuclear issue… We will not discuss any other issue with the United States.”

Expert Insight: The Iranian insistence on limiting negotiations to the nuclear issue, while rejecting discussion of ballistic missiles or regional support, highlights a strategic calculation. Iran may be attempting to secure concessions on the nuclear front while preserving its perceived defensive capabilities and regional influence.

Iran also indicated a desire for recognition of its right to uranium enrichment and expressed concern that discussing its missile programme could leave it vulnerable to attack from Israel.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warn about?

Abbas Araghchi warned that Iran would attack U.S. Bases in the Middle East if the U.S. Were to attack Iran.

What is the status of negotiations between Iran and the U.S.?

Both Iran and the U.S. Have committed to continuing indirect nuclear negotiations, following discussions in Oman that were described as positive.

What issues are preventing broader negotiations between Iran and the U.S.?

Iran insists that negotiations be limited to the nuclear issue and refuses to discuss other matters, such as its ballistic missile programme or regional activities.

Given these competing pressures and firm positions, what impact might a breakdown in these negotiations have on regional stability?