Tensions in the Middle East have risen over anti-government protests in Iran and possible US intervention. Tehran has issued a stern warning that if the United States launches a military attack on Iran, it will retaliate against US military bases in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and Turkey, Reuters news agency reported on Wednesday, citing a senior Iranian official.
The official said Iran had already informed relevant regional countries about the matter and requested them to play their role in deterring any US attack. Iran claims that Washington’s military action would push the entire region towards a terrible conflict.
Meanwhile, anti-government protests in Iran have entered their third week, with Tehran preparing to carry out the first execution linked to the movement. Human rights groups say the death sentence of 26-year-old protester Erfan Soltani, who was arrested last week, could be carried out on Wednesday.
British newspaper The Guardian reported that Soltani, who was arrested in the city of Karaj, was found guilty after a speedy trial. Amnesty International has warned that Iranian authorities are using speedy trials and the death penalty as a tool of intimidation to suppress dissent.
Analysts fear that the Iran-US conflict could take a new turn in the context of ongoing protests, executions, and military threats.