Source: Iran International
TEHRAN – Former Iranian Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki has called for a military operation against a U.S. military base in the region, suggesting that Iranian forces should capture American personnel and bring them to Iran as a way to pressure Washington.
Mottaki, who served as Iran’s foreign minister from 2005 to 2010 and is currently a member of Iran’s parliament, made the remarks amid rising tensions between Tehran and the United States. He proposed that Iran carry out a ground assault on one of the American military facilities in the region and seize around 100 U.S. personnel.
“My proposal is that we launch a ground attack on one of the U.S. bases in the region, capture 100 Americans and bring them to Iran,” Mottaki said.
The statement has sparked international attention due to the potential consequences of targeting foreign military personnel. The capture of American troops would represent a major escalation and could trigger a serious confrontation between Iran and the United States, with possible implications for regional security.
Mottaki’s comments come at a time of heightened instability across the Middle East, where U.S. forces maintain military bases and security partnerships with several Gulf countries. Relations between Tehran and Washington have remained tense for decades, with disputes ranging from Iran’s nuclear program and regional influence to military activities and sanctions.
The former foreign minister’s remarks reflect ongoing debates within Iran over how the country should respond to pressure from the United States and its allies. While some political figures have advocated stronger military responses, others have called for diplomatic engagement and efforts to reduce tensions.
Security analysts warn that any attempt to attack U.S. facilities or capture American military personnel could lead to a rapid escalation, potentially drawing in regional allies and affecting stability across the Gulf. A major confrontation could also have consequences for international energy markets, shipping routes, and global security.
Iran has previously used threats of retaliation and military pressure as part of its response to U.S. policies, while Washington has repeatedly warned against attacks on its forces and interests in the region.
Mottaki’s comments are expected to attract close attention from U.S. officials, Gulf governments, and international observers as Iran-U.S. tensions continue to shape the wider security environment in the Middle East.
