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Iran Says US Bases Could Be Targeted if Military Conflict Escalates
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Iran has sent a warning to UN Secretary-General António Guterres, stating that US military installations in the Middle East will be considered “legitimate targets” if the US launches an attack on Iran.
The letter, shared by Axios journalist Barak Ravid via X on February 20.
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In the message to the UN chief, Iran expressed concern over recent comments made by US President Donald Trump, which they believe signal a “real risk of military aggression.”
The letter emphasized that while Iran does not seek conflict, it will respond “decisively” if attacked by the US
“If attacked, all bases, facilities, and assets of the hostile force in the region would constitute legitimate targets in the context of Iran’s defensive response. The United States would bear full and direct responsibility for any unpredictable and uncontrolled consequences,” the letter stated.
🇮🇷🇺🇸Iran in a letter to UN Secretary General: "If attacked, all bases, facilities, and assets of the hostile force in the region would constitute legitimate targets in the context of Iran’s defensive response. The United States would bear full and direct responsibility for any… pic.twitter.com/Wnj76fkDOz
— Barak Ravid (@BarakRavid) February 19, 2026
Meanwhile, Iran has deployed over 20 Ghadir-class midget submarines, which are specifically designed for shallow-water ambushes in the Persian Gulf, according to Army Recognition.
This deployment comes amid increased US naval and air presence in the region. Following President Donald Trump’s announcement that a US “armada,” including the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and guided-missile destroyers, was heading toward Iran, tensions have been rising in the Gulf.
Iran is estimated to operate an undersea fleet of approximately 28 to 30 submarines, with the Ghadir-class making up the majority of its small-submarine force. These submarines are tailored for the Gulf’s unique, congested environment, characterized by dense shipping lanes, islands, and a cluttered seabed.
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The Ghadir-class submarines are designed for close-in littoral combat, with a displacement of about 117 tons on the surface and 125 tons when submerged. This capability makes them well-suited for ambush-style operations in the region’s shallow waters.
Earlier, the US military intercepted and shot down an Iranian drone after it allegedly approached the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier “aggressively” in the Arabian Sea.
Navy Captain Tim Hawkins, a spokesperson for US Central Command, confirmed, “An F-35C fighter jet from the USS Abraham Lincoln took down the Iranian drone in self-defense to safeguard the aircraft carrier and the personnel aboard.”
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