Iran warns neighbors against hosting US attack

Iran is pushing back against US demands for direct negotiations over its nuclear program, warning neighboring countries that host US bases they could become targets if they support any potential attack, a senior Iranian official told Reuters on Saturday.

Tehran has notified Iraq, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Turkey, and Bahrain that any assistance to a US attack, including allowing the use of their airspace or territory, would be considered a hostile act. Such an act "will have severe consequences for them," the official said.

While rejecting direct talks with US President Donald Trump, Iran seeks to continue indirect negotiations through Oman, a long-established communication channel between the two adversaries, the official said.

"Indirect talks offer a chance to evaluate Washington's seriousness about a political solution with Iran," added the official.

The official added that Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has placed Iran's armed forces on high alert.

However, the official believed a deal needed to be reached within roughly two months, fearing Israel, Iran's long-time enemy, might attack if talks dragged on.