Iran has reportedly considered expanding its response to the United States beyond the Middle East if Washington escalates the current conflict.
The Financial Times reported that Iranian officials have examined options for targeting US military assets in Europe.
The report cited people close to the Iranian government.
According to the report, possible targets include US or Western military sites in Bulgaria and Cyprus.
Iran Considers Targets in Europe
The Financial Times said Iranian planners have reviewed ways to widen the conflict if the United States launches a major new offensive.
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The possible targets include US military facilities in southeastern Europe.
Bulgaria and Cyprus are among the countries mentioned in the report.
The report does not say that Iran has decided to attack these sites.
Instead, it says Tehran has been studying possible responses if Washington takes further military action.
Undersea Cables Also Reportedly Considered
The report said Iran has also considered options involving undersea fibre-optic cables in the Strait of Hormuz.
Such cables carry important communications data.
Any serious disruption could affect regional communications and add pressure to an already tense situation.
The report said Iran’s response would depend on future US actions.
Tensions Remain High
The latest report comes as talks between Iran and the United States remain stalled.
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US President Donald Trump said on August 18 that no talks with Iran were taking place.
Iran, however, has continued to state its position on the Strait of Hormuz and the wider conflict.
The dispute has increased fears of a wider regional conflict.
It has also raised concerns about global energy supplies and international shipping.
Iran Could Expand Its Response
The Financial Times report said some people close to the Iranian government believe a wider conflict could become likely if Washington launches a major new attack.
Iran has already faced military pressure in the region.
Tehran has also warned that US facilities supporting attacks on Iran could become targets.
However, the latest report concerns possible plans rather than confirmed military action.
Strait of Hormuz Remains a Major Flashpoint
The Strait of Hormuz remains at the centre of the dispute.
Iran has said the waterway will stay closed until the United States meets several conditions.
Those conditions include ending military pressure, lifting oil sanctions and releasing frozen Iranian assets.
The waterway is vital for global energy supplies.
Any further disruption could have serious effects on oil markets and international trade.
Diplomatic Efforts Face More Pressure
The latest claims come as diplomatic efforts struggle to make progress.
Regional countries have continued to support dialogue between Washington and Tehran.
However, major differences remain between the two sides.
The Financial Times report suggests that Tehran is also preparing for the possibility of a wider conflict.
For now, it remains unclear whether the reported options will lead to any military action.
