Iran Threatens US Bases in Europe Amid Escalating Tensions

Iran has threatened to attack European bases used by the United States if it is attacked by the US, according to Ahmad Beshghash Ardestani, a member of the Iranian Parliament's Security Committee. He told Euronews that Iran would not allow European aid to America for an attack on Iran to pass without a response, specifically mentioning potential targets in Italy and Germany. These statements follow reports from Iranian state media suggesting a new conflict could reach "the heart of Europe." Ardestani argued that European countries are already in a state of war with Iran by allowing their bases to be used.

The threats come amid heightened tensions and speculation that the US might launch an attack on Iran following the US midterm elections. Earlier in the week, Gulf officials reportedly informed American media that President Trump was planning an attack on Iran for November 4th, with increased activity of US refueling planes observed over the Persian Gulf suggesting imminent preparations.

Meanwhile, Iran's Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, issued a defiant statement on "Global Arrogance Day," asserting that the midterm election results would not alter US hostility towards Iran. He stated that the only path to complete deterrence is to continue the strategy of a "stronger Iran" through comprehensive development, emphasizing social unity and dedication. Khamenei also claimed that any sign of surrender to the enemy would embolden further demands and aggression.

Ali Nikzad, the Deputy Speaker of the Iranian Parliament, declared that the Strait of Hormuz symbolizes Iran's power and the enemy's miscalculations, promising a crushing response to any adventurism there. He affirmed the Iranian people's steadfast resistance.

Separately, a New York Times report revealed that Israel shared intelligence with the US alleging an Iranian plan to use chemical weapons against its adversaries. The report indicated that US officials received this intelligence with skepticism, viewing it as part of Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's efforts to persuade the Trump administration to engage in extensive military action against Iran. Israel also reportedly shared some of this information with Gulf states, some of whom expressed doubt about Iran's chemical weapons program and believed Israel was pushing for renewed conflict.