Iran insisted it does not seek war but cautioned that all US military assets in the region would become legitimate targets if conflict is initiated.
BY PC Bureau
February 20, 2026: Iran has warned the United States that any military aggression would trigger retaliation, declaring that American bases and assets across the region would become “legitimate targets.”
In a sharply worded letter to António Guterres and members of the United Nations Security Council, Tehran accused Washington of making unlawful threats and urged the Council to act “without delay” to prevent escalation.
While emphasising that it “neither seeks tension nor war” and will not initiate conflict, Iran made clear it would defend itself if attacked. “In the event that it is subjected to military aggression, Iran will respond decisively and proportionately in the exercise of its inherent right of self-defence under Article 51 of the Charter of the United Nations,” the letter stated.
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Iran added that under such circumstances, “all bases, facilities, and assets of the hostile force in the region would constitute legitimate targets,” warning that Washington would bear “full and direct responsibility” for any resulting consequences. Tehran also called on the Security Council to ensure that the United States “immediately ceases its unlawful threats of the use of force.”
Iran warns ‘DELUSIONAL US PRESIDENT’
Be careful whose advice you follow on attacking Iran
‘If you… attack Iran, ALL American military centers, bases, ships will be legitimate targets for us’ — parliament speaker
Allahu Akbar chants erupt pic.twitter.com/hrR7HF5V8c
— RT (@RT_com) January 11, 2026
The warning comes amid rising tensions and visible military signalling on both sides. Iran recently conducted joint military drills with Russia, while the US has increased its military presence in the Middle East, including deploying additional naval assets.
Iran also said it has engaged in nuclear negotiations with seriousness and good faith, but cautioned that continued pressure could undermine diplomacy.
Speaker of Iran’s Parliament Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf said that “all American centers and forces across the entire region would be legitimate targets” in response to any potential U.S. “adventurism.” pic.twitter.com/pCge9I70C5
— Visegrád 24 (@visegrad24) January 2, 2026
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump warned that Iran faces consequences if talks fail, suggesting the window for a deal may be closing soon. Although no immediate military action has been announced, the combination of military deployments, diplomatic deadlines, and escalating rhetoric has heightened fears of a potential confrontation, placing US-Iran relations under intense global scrutiny.
