In a significant escalation of tensions in the region, Tehran has issued a stern warning to its neighboring countries that host U.S. troops, stating that it would retaliate against American bases if the United States decides to strike. This warning comes amidst ongoing unrest in Iran, where protests against clerical rule have resulted in a brutal crackdown, leading to thousands of casualties. A senior Iranian official relayed this message to Reuters on January 14, highlighting Iran's efforts to deter threats from former President Donald Trump.
According to three diplomats, some military personnel at the main U.S. air base in the region, specifically Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, have been advised to leave by Wednesday evening. However, there is currently no indication of a large-scale evacuation akin to the one that occurred prior to last year's Iranian missile attacks. One diplomat described the situation as a "posture change" rather than a formal evacuation order, with no significant troop movements observed off the base, a stark contrast to previous events.
The U.S. embassy in Doha has not provided an immediate comment on these developments, and Qatar's foreign ministry has yet to respond to inquiries. Tensions have been exacerbated by Iranian accusations against the United States and Israel, blaming them for instigating unrest within the country.
Former President Trump has repeatedly threatened to intervene in Iran, particularly if the Iranian government executes protesters. In a recent interview with CBS News, he vowed strong action in response to such measures. Trump has urged Iranians to continue their protests and take control of institutions, declaring that "help is on the way."
In light of these threats, Tehran has reached out to its regional allies, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Turkey, urging them to prevent any U.S. military action against Iran. A senior Iranian official stated that if the U.S. targets Iran, bases located in these countries would also be targeted. Direct communication between Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi and U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff has been suspended amid these rising tensions.
As protests continue, the Iranian government's crackdown has reportedly resulted in the deaths of at least 2,600 individuals, according to a rights group. Despite this violence, a Western official remarked that the Iranian government does not appear to be on the verge of collapse, as its security forces maintain control. Nevertheless, the unrest has caught the government off guard, occurring during a period of vulnerability.
Recent reports indicate that while the situation remains volatile, authorities have managed to restore some semblance of calm. However, this has not come without significant repercussions, as large funeral processions for those killed in the protests have been broadcasted by Iranian state media, demonstrating the public’s ongoing anger.
In a bid to address the unrest, Iran's chief justice has called for rapid legal proceedings against those accused of violence during the protests. With reported arrests exceeding 18,000, including the imminent execution of an individual involved in the protests, human rights organizations continue to express grave concerns about the treatment of detainees.
As the Iranian government navigates these challenges, it faces additional pressure from external forces, particularly following significant setbacks to its regional allies since the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attacks against Israel. In light of these developments, Trump has hinted at military options being considered, further complicating the landscape of international relations in the region.
As the situation evolves, the U.S. State Department has urged American citizens to leave Iran immediately, reflecting the increasing concerns over safety and stability in the region.