Iran Says It Will Strike Outside Middle East If U.S. Attacks

Iranian officials said Wednesday they would attack countries outside the Middle East if the United States launches new strikes against Iran. The statement came after President Trump told reporters on Tuesday that he had considered ordering strikes the previous day but decided to pursue further diplomatic talks instead.

Background on the Conflict President Trump said he was an hour away from ordering action before choosing to continue negotiations aimed at ending the war. He added that another strike could still occur and that a decision would be announced soon. Iranian officials have previously warned they would respond to new attacks by targeting U.S. bases in the Middle East.

The latest statement did not specify any targets outside the region. Iranian officials have held public demonstrations in Tehran showing residents how to handle assault rifles. Parades in the capital have also featured military vehicles equipped with machine guns.

President Trump has stated that ending the war requires Iran to forgo nuclear weapons. Iranian officials have sought control over the Strait of Hormuz and the withdrawal of U.S. troops from neighboring countries.