From now on, every American civilian, military personnel will be a target in the region— Iran 

Iran’s state broadcaster has issued a stark warning, declaring that all American military and civilian personnel in the Middle East will now be considered “legitimate targets” in retaliation for U.S. airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities.

The announcement marks a dramatic escalation in tensions between Tehran and Washington, raising fears of open conflict.  

The threat came hours after the U.S. conducted precision strikes on suspected nuclear sites in Iran, which American officials claimed were being used for weapons development. Iran’s state media, echoing the rhetoric of hardline officials, framed the U.S. action as an act of war and vowed a forceful response. “From now on, every American civilian and military personnel in the region will be considered a legitimate target,” the broadcaster stated, signaling a potential shift toward direct attacks on U.S. interests.  

The warning puts thousands of American diplomats, contractors, and troops across the Middle East at heightened risk, particularly in Iraq, Syria, and Gulf states where Iranian-backed militias operate. Experts warn that Tehran could activate proxy forces—such as Hezbollah in Lebanon or Kataib Hezbollah in Iraq—to carry out retaliatory strikes.

The U.S. has not yet officially responded to the threat, but Pentagon officials have previously warned of “severe consequences” if Americans are targeted. The situation further destabilizes a region already on edge, with global markets closely watching for any disruption to oil supplies or broader conflict.