Iran notified Gulf states through diplomatic channels in Qatar this week that US military bases on their territories would be considered legitimate targets in the event of a US attack on Tehran, Arab media reported on June 19, 2025. The warning, transmitted through Doha, was part of Iran's deterrence strategy amid an escalating conflict with Israel and threats from Washington, which is considering military intervention. The move underscores Tehran's determination to expand its potential theater of operations to include US regional allies.

The conflict between Israel and Iran, which began on June 13 with Israeli strikes on nuclear facilities in Natanz and Karaj, has escalated to an unprecedented level. Iran has responded with more than 4000 missile and drone strikes on Israeli cities, including Jerusalem, causing widespread damage, according to Reuters. The United States, a key Israeli ally, has stepped up its military presence in the region, sending a third aircraft carrier to the Persian Gulf. Iran has notified Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Bahrain that any support for the United States, including providing airspace or bases for attacks, will be considered a hostile act, according to Al Arabiya. The warning echoes a statement by IRGC commander General Ahmad Vahidi, who, according to Tasnim, stressed Iran’s readiness to strike American bases in Iraq, Syria and the Gulf. In Qatar, home to the largest US base, Al Udeid, authorities have called for de-escalation, fearing being drawn into the conflict, The National reports.

Iran is keen to maintain the neutrality of its Arab neighbours, with whom it has cultivated ties in recent years. According to The Guardian, normalising ties with Saudi Arabia in 2023 has allowed Tehran to avoid isolation, but the current conflict puts Riyadh in a difficult position because of its alliance with the US. Analysts interviewed by Al Jazeera believe Iran is unlikely to attack civilian targets in the Gulf states, but military bases such as Al Dhafra in the UAE or a base in Bahrain could be targets.