Iran says it will strike back if U.S. attacks, troops begin to leave bases

Iran warns of retaliation after the United States began withdrawing some military personnel from key Middle East bases, signaling rising tensions as President Donald Trump threatens possible action over Iran’s violent unrest.

A U.S. official confirmed on Wednesday that the withdrawals were precautionary, citing heightened regional risks. The move followed warnings from senior Iranian officials that Tehran would target U.S. bases in neighboring countries if Washington launches strikes.

U.S. Drawdown Signals Growing Tensions

The United States has started pulling some personnel from strategic bases across the region, including Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, the largest U.S. military installation in the Middle East. Qatari authorities confirmed the drawdown, describing it as a response to regional instability.

European and Israeli officials said U.S. military intervention now appears likely, with some suggesting action could come within 24 hours. However, Washington has not officially confirmed any strike plans.

Iran Threatens U.S. Bases in the Region

A senior Iranian official said Tehran had warned countries hosting U.S. bases including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Turkey, and Bahrain that they would face retaliation if Washington attacks Iran.

Iran has also suspended direct diplomatic contacts between Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi and U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, further escalating tensions.

Trump Escalates Rhetoric Over Iran Protests

President Trump has repeatedly threatened to intervene in support of Iranian protesters. In an interview with CBS News, he promised “very strong action” if Iran executes demonstrators and urged citizens to continue protests, saying “help is on the way.”

Iranian authorities accuse the U.S. and Israel of fueling the unrest, which they describe as acts of terrorism rather than peaceful demonstrations.

Deadliest Unrest Since 1979 Revolution

The protests, which began two weeks ago over economic hardship, have escalated into the most violent unrest since Iran’s 1979 Islamic Revolution.

• Iranian officials report over 2,000 deaths
• Rights group HRANA has verified 2,403 protester deaths
• More than 18,000 arrests have been recorded

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot called the crackdown “the most violent repression in Iran’s contemporary history.”

Regional Diplomacy Intensifies

Iranian officials have increased diplomatic outreach to prevent escalation. Araqchi has held talks with leaders in Qatar, the UAE, and Turkey, while Iran’s security chief contacted Qatari officials to urge restraint.

Despite the unrest, Western officials say Iran’s government does not appear close to collapse, noting that security forces remain firmly in control.

Human Rights Concerns Grow

Rights groups warn of accelerating executions and mass trials. Kurdish rights organization Hengaw reported that a 26-year-old protester faced execution, though confirmation remains unclear.

Iran’s chief justice has ordered fast-tracked trials for those accused of violent acts during the protests.

As Iran warns of retaliation, U.S. troop movements and Trump’s escalating rhetoric suggest a volatile standoff. While diplomacy continues behind the scenes, the risk of military confrontation grows amid Iran’s deadliest internal crisis in decades.