Tensions in the Middle East are rising once again, as Iran has issued a stark warning to neighboring countries that host U.S. military bases, urging them not to support any potential attack against its territory. At the same time, Iran has expressed openness to resuming indirect negotiations with the United States through Oman, a long-standing diplomatic channel between the two rivals.
A senior Iranian official, speaking anonymously to Reuters, revealed that while Tehran has refused former U.S. President Donald Trump’s demand for direct talks, it is still interested in exploring a political resolution through indirect dialogue. “Indirect talks offer a chance to evaluate Washington’s seriousness,” the official stated, adding that discussions could begin soon if the U.S. sends the right signals.
However, Iran’s posture remains defensive. The country has issued warnings to Iraq, Kuwait, the UAE, Qatar, Turkey, and Bahrain—nations that either host U.S. military bases or have allowed U.S. access to their airspace. Iran has made it clear that if any of these nations assist the U.S. in a strike, it will be seen as an act of hostility and will have “severe consequences.” Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has reportedly placed Iran’s military forces on high alert.
These developments come amid growing instability in the region, including escalating conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon, ongoing military strikes in Yemen, and confrontations between Israel and Iran. With the Gulf being a critical passageway for the world’s oil supply, any conflict involving Iran could disrupt global markets and trigger a wider regional war.
While some countries like Kuwait have reportedly reassured Iran that they will not allow hostile actions to originate from their soil, others have remained silent. Turkey’s Foreign Ministry denied receiving any warning but acknowledged such communication could happen through alternative channels.
Iran, though still working closely with Russia, has voiced skepticism about the strength of that alliance, indicating that Moscow’s support may depend on its evolving relationship with Trump. Russia has already condemned U.S. threats of military action, calling for restraint from all sides.
According to the Iranian official, there is a limited window—roughly two months—to strike a diplomatic agreement. If talks are delayed, there are concerns that Israel might act unilaterally, which could lead to the reactivation of all international sanctions against Iran.
Iran insists that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes. However, the international community remains uneasy as the country accelerates its uranium enrichment to 60%, edging closer to weapons-grade levels. Western powers argue that such enrichment is unnecessary for civilian use and is a red flag for potential weaponization.
Despite Iran’s willingness to engage in talks about its nuclear program, it has firmly rejected any discussion under threats and declared that its missile capabilities are non-negotiable. Recent comments from a top Iranian military commander suggest that U.S. bases in the region could be targets if hostilities escalate. This echoes past events, notably in 2020, when Iran launched missile strikes at U.S. bases in Iraq following the assassination of General Qassem Soleimani.
The coming weeks will be crucial. Will the U.S. and Iran find common ground through diplomacy? Or are we heading toward another dangerous flashpoint in an already volatile region?
