Iran’s Revolutionary Guard has urged civilians in the Middle East to leave areas near US military bases, amid escalating regional tensions.
Iran Issues Evacuation Warning
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has called on civilians in Middle Eastern countries to evacuate areas in close proximity to US military bases, Reuters reported Friday, citing Iranian media.
The IRGC stated, “We recommend that you leave the areas where American forces are stationed as soon as possible so that you are not harmed,” according to a statement published by Iranian media.
Accusations Against US Forces
Iran International, an anti-government exile portal, reported that the statement accused US forces of using civilian facilities and warned that Iran would attack them regardless of location.
Potential Targets Include Hotels
The Iranian army previously announced that hotels housing American soldiers could become targets. Abolfazl Shekarachi, a military spokesperson, stated on state television Thursday evening that a hotel becomes “American” when US soldiers enter it.
Shekarachi added, “Should we simply stand idly by and allow the Americans to attack us? When we respond, we must, of course, strike where they are located.”
Allegations of Using Civilians as Shields
Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi accused the US military of using the region’s population as “human shields,” according to AFP.
Araghchi wrote on X, “From the beginning of this war, American soldiers have been fleeing military bases in countries belonging to the Gulf Cooperation Council to hide in hotels and offices,” calling on authorities to deny reservations to Americans, particularly in the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain.
Locations in Syria and Lebanon
Iranian sources claim US forces are also utilizing such locations in Syria and Lebanon.
Recent Escalation of Conflict
Israel and the US began strikes on Iran on February 28th. In response, Tehran launched retaliatory attacks on Israel and several Gulf states, targeting US bases and civilian infrastructure, including airports and petrochemical facilities. (PAP)
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