The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said Tehran has urged regional countries to “prevent a Washington attack on Iran,” warning that US military bases hosted by allies would be considered legitimate targets in the event of an assault.
According to the official, Iran has conveyed the message to several countries, including Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates and Türkiye.
The official also said direct contacts between Abbas Araghchi and Steve Witkoff have been suspended, signalling a further deterioration in diplomatic engagement.
At the same time, an Israeli official told Reuters that, according to Israel’s assessment, Trump has decided to intervene in Iran, although the scope and timing of any action remain unclear.
The Israeli official said the security cabinet of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was briefed late Tuesday on scenarios including possible US intervention or the collapse of the Iranian government.
Tensions have escalated sharply as Iran faces widespread anti-government protests and amid increasingly explicit warnings from Washington.
Meanwhile, the editorial board of Iran International Network said in a statement that the Islamic Republic has killed at least 12,000 people during nationwide protests. Iranian authorities have not confirmed the figure.
Independent verification of casualty numbers remains difficult due to severe media restrictions and ongoing internet shutdowns across Iran.