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Iran Warns U.S. Bases, Assets Would Be ‘Legitimate Targets’ if Attacked

Published by Akinwale Fakinlede on February 20th, 2026.

Iran Warns U.S. Bases, Assets Would Be ‘Legitimate Targets’ if Attacked

Tehran / United Nations, February 20, 2026 — Iran has issued a stark warning to the United States, saying that American military bases, facilities and assets in the Middle East and beyond would be considered legitimate targets if Washington launches a military attack. The message, delivered in a letter to the United Nations, underscores rising tensions between the two powers amid a fraught standoff over Iran’s nuclear programme and U.S. military posturing.

The Business Standard

In the official communication to U.N. Secretary‑General António Guterres and the president of the U.N. Security Council, Iran’s ambassador to the U.N., Amir Saeid Iravani, cautioned that threats of force from Washington signal a real risk of military confrontation. The letter, seen by international news agencies, says Tehran does not seek war but insists it will defend itself vigorously if attacked.

Gulf News

“Iran remains committed to diplomatic solutions,” the letter states, highlighting Tehran’s willingness to continue negotiations over its nuclear activities. However, it adds that “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 letter argues that any military aggression would make the United States fully responsible for unpredictable and dangerous consequences.

The Financial Express

The warning comes as U.S. President Donald Trump has increased American military presence in the Middle East. Trump’s administration has deployed warships, fighter jets and other hardware to the region as part of efforts to prevent Iran from developing a nuclear weapon — a programme Tehran says is peaceful. Trump has also publicly set deadlines for Tehran to strike an agreement, saying Iran has only a limited window — 10 to 15 days — to reach a deal or face “bad things.”

The Business Standard

Analysts say the escalating rhetoric and military build‑up heighten the risk of miscalculation, potentially drawing regional actors and global powers deeper into confrontation. While both sides maintain that they prefer negotiations over conflict, the atmosphere in international diplomatic circles remains tense as world leaders watch closely for any turning point in the dispute.