Don't let enemies run war from your land: Iran warns Gulf over supporting US, Israel

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Saturday warned Gulf countries against backing the US and Israel in any military action against Tehran, cautioning them not to allow their territories to be used for attacks if they wish to ensure regional stability and development.

In a post on X, Pezeshkian reiterated that Iran does not initiate preemptive strikes but will respond strongly if its infrastructure or economic centres are targeted. “We have said many times that Iran doesn't carry out preemptive attacks, but we will retaliate strongly if our infrastructure or economic centres are targeted,” he said. Addressing countries in the region, he added, “If you want development and security, don't let our enemies run the war from your lands.”

Meanwhile, Iran claimed it had struck two US Army “hideouts” in Dubai as tensions in West Asia continue to escalate, according to Iranian state media Fars News Agency. A spokesperson for the Central Headquarters of Hazrat Khatam al-Anbiya said US personnel had moved to these locations following earlier Iranian strikes on their bases in the region.

The spokesperson claimed that more than 500 US Army personnel were present at the sites, with around 400 in one location and 100 in the other. According to the statement, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps identified the locations and carried out precise missile and drone strikes, inflicting heavy casualties.

The spokesperson further warned that the region could become a “graveyard” for American soldiers, stating that US leadership would ultimately have no choice but to retreat.

Separately, a CBS report said the Pentagon is expected to deploy troops from the 82nd Airborne Division to the Middle East. Citing a source familiar with the planning, the report said the deployment may include a command component and ground forces.

The report also noted that a possible US ground operation on Kharg Island is being considered, even as Iran has reportedly begun laying mines and moving additional forces to the island.

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