Iran Threatens 'Fatal Strikes' on Bases from West Asia to Europe

Iran's Supreme National Security Council Secretary Mohsen Rezaei declared that any base in West Asia or Europe participating in a U.S. "aggression" against Iran would be a legitimate target for "fatal" Iranian strikes. Rezaei stated on X (formerly Twitter) that there would be "no safe distance, no safe haven, and no immunity" in the event of an attack on Iran. These remarks come amid heightened concerns of renewed conflict, following a dispute between Tehran and Washington that began with U.S.-Israeli attacks on Iran in February.

Rezaei had previously issued a similar threat on November 3rd, warning of targeting U.S. bases in Europe and distant regions if Washington used them for new attacks on Iran. He also noted that Washington's response to Iran's demands had been "unconvincing" and that reopening the Strait of Hormuz was contingent on Tehran's seven conditions being fully addressed. The newspaper Hamshahri reported that Iran had updated its target bank to include U.S. bases and infrastructure in Europe, explaining Rezaei's reference to the continent.

Iran's seven conditions reportedly include lifting the U.S. naval blockade, ensuring safe passage for ships and oil tankers through the Strait, removing unilateral sanctions, exempting Iranian oil exports from restrictions, releasing frozen assets, keeping nuclear materials within Iran, and ending the war. Iran had previously announced the closure of the Strait on July 12th, resuming a prior closure from April 18th.

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf stated that Washington had not provided an official response to the seven conditions and must implement them fully before resuming talks and reopening the waterway. He added that Trump would face another defeat if he chose war again, and that Washington's blockade prevents food access and hinders trade and health services. Ghalibaf also announced an understanding with Oman regarding a new transit mechanism in the Strait, which is under discussion in indirect negotiations with Washington.

Meanwhile, reports suggest Israeli pressure to resume strikes. Regional officials told the Associated Press that Netanyahu is pushing for a new wave of strikes on Iran after the U.S. midterm elections and is working with U.S. administration officials to persuade Trump to launch a "swift and broad" air campaign, though the U.S. President has not made a decision. The Financial Times reported that Netanyahu contacts Trump "every day" to urge him to resume military action, though Netanyahu's office denied a tense call with Trump and called the report "nonsense."

President Trump stated that "positive momentum" was heading towards ending the conflict, that new U.S. strikes seemed "totally unlikely," and that Gulf allies oppose a new military campaign. He indicated the decision depends on Tehran accepting a "strong deal." Secretary of State Marco Rubio commented in Paris that "major combat operations are not needed" as the U.S. economic campaign is "devastating."

Despite these statements, U.S. forces carried out limited strikes on Iranian targets on November 3rd and 6th, including attacks on Qeshm Island near the Strait. Within Israel, Gadi Eisenkot, appointed to form the government, warned Netanyahu in a letter against using security agencies for political purposes before the new government is sworn in.