Abuja: Iran has issued a warning that military installations hosting United States forces in the Gulf region could become targets in response to current U.S.-Israel attacks against its territory. Iran’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Mahdavi Raja, made this statement during a news conference on Thursday in Abuja. He stated that Tehran would exercise its right to self-defense under Article 51 of the United Nations Charter if foreign military facilities were used to launch operations against Iranian soil.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Raja emphasized that Iran does not view neighboring states as adversaries but cautioned that any installations used for attacks on Iran could be considered part of the military equation. He clarified that Iran’s actions are defensive and lawful, focusing solely on military targets, and asserted that civilian infrastructure in neighboring countries would remain outside the scope of Iran’s response.
The envoy noted that the attacks follow reported aggression by the United States and Israel, describing these strikes as unprovoked despite ongoing diplomatic engagements. He expressed that such escalation undermines trust in negotiations and violates international norms. Raja specifically mentioned multiple Gulf states, including Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, and Bahrain, where American military bases could become targets if used against Iran.
Raja reiterated that Iran’s defensive measures are proportionate and consistent with international law. He called upon the international community and the United Nations to take a clear stance by condemning the attacks and ensuring respect for sovereignty and regional stability. While affirming Iran’s commitment to diplomacy and peace, he warned that any further aggression against the country would be met with a measured defensive response.
He concluded by stressing that Tehran’s actions are aimed at preserving national security and protecting its population while maintaining respect for international norms. Raja cautioned that the ongoing situation has the potential to affect regional stability, highlighting the necessity for the global community to uphold international law to prevent further escalation.