Iran Warns Gulf States Against Supporting US Military Operations
Iran’s armed forces have warned Gulf countries against providing assistance or facilities to the United States military, saying such support could amount to participation in American military operations.
The warning was issued on Wednesday by Iran’s armed forces chief of staff, Ali Abdollahi, according to Iran’s Mehr news agency.
Abdollahi said Gulf countries should understand that allowing the United States to use their territory or providing other forms of assistance would be viewed as involvement in the conflict.
He also questioned how a large number of US military aircraft, particularly refuelling planes, could operate from regional bases without the knowledge of the countries hosting those facilities.
The Iranian military chief said countries bordering the Persian Gulf that had previously stated they would not allow their territories to be used against Iran should be aware that Tehran was closely monitoring developments in the region.
The warning comes amid the ongoing conflict between Iran and the United States, which began on February 28 following US-Israeli attacks on Iran. Tehran responded with missile and drone strikes, including attacks targeting US military bases in the region.
Iran has repeatedly expressed concern over the presence and activities of US forces in neighbouring countries, particularly those hosting American military facilities.
Meanwhile, the United States is redeploying the USS George Washington aircraft carrier to the Middle East to replace the USS Abraham Lincoln.
The move comes amid reports of deteriorating living conditions affecting crew members aboard the Abraham Lincoln.
The latest Iranian warning adds to growing regional tensions and places further pressure on Gulf countries that host US military personnel and facilities to avoid becoming directly involved in the confrontation.
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