The Iranian military is preparing to strike American military facilities in Europe should the conflict with the US expand again. Tehran is also considering the possibility of targeting underwater communication lines in the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.
The Financial Times newspaper reported on this.
According to the report, US military facilities in Southeast Europe are among the primary targets in Iran‘s potential response plans. Facilities in Bulgaria and Southern Cyprus are reportedly among them.
The plan regarding Bulgaria is noted as drawing particular attention. Last month, Sofia granted permission for US refueling aircraft to use an airbase in the country. It is reported that this decision was taken into account in Iran’s calculations regarding potential retaliatory measures.
Southern Cyprus also among potential targets
According to the newspaper, Southern Cyprus is also among the territories Iran is considering for potential retaliatory strikes. The island has previously been subjected to drone attacks.
Iran’s plans are reportedly based on a scenario in which the US expands its military operations in the region again. In that case, Tehran is considering options to carry out retaliatory measures against US military infrastructure in Europe, as well as its positions in the Middle East.
Cables in the Strait of Hormuz could also be targeted
According to reports, the scenarios prepared by Iran also include the possibility of disabling underwater communication cables passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
The Strait of Hormuz is considered one of the most important routes for global energy trade. A potential attack on the communication infrastructure there could create additional pressure on security and the economic situation in the region.
The Financial Times reports that Iran working on such scenarios shows Tehran is preparing for asymmetric retaliatory measures in the event of possible escalation. If the conflict expands again, such steps could further strain the already complex situation in the Middle East.
It is noted that the plans in question are reportedly prepared by Iran for a scenario of possible escalation. However, there is no information that a decision has been made regarding their implementation.
