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Following U.S. airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities, American intelligence has detected signs that Iran-backed militias may be preparing attacks on U.S. military bases in Iraq and possibly Syria, according to a report by The New York Times.
The potential threat comes amid growing concerns over whether Tehran will retaliate for the strikes, which targeted the nuclear sites of Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan late Saturday.
Senior U.S. officials, including President Donald Trump, have warned Iran against any response. "It would be a grave mistake," Trump said during a press briefing, adding that the U.S. does not seek regime change in Tehran but would defend its forces decisively.
Defense officials told NYT that while no final assessment has been made, there are credible indications that Iran-aligned groups could target U.S. assets in the region. “Our forces remain on high alert,” said Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine. “We are fully prepared to respond to any retaliatory or proxy attacks. We will defend ourselves.”
Secretary of State Marco Rubio echoed this stance, saying Iran’s possible response “would be its biggest mistake yet,” but reiterated that Washington is not aiming to overthrow the Iranian government.
Tensions remain high across the Middle East following the escalation. Iran maintains it has the right to self-defense under international law.
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