By WILL HALLOWELL, NEWS REPORTER
Published: | Updated:
Iran has threatened to invade neighbouring US allies if Donald Trump resumes attacks, according to reports.
The Islamic Republic is said to be bolstering its defences and rallying supporters ahead of the US midterm elections in November.
It is understood that plans are being drawn up to deliver a harsher military response if Mr Trump and his Gulf allies continue to strike the war-torn nation.
This in the extreme could mean a ground invasion of Iran's neighbouring countries as satellite images show the Islamic Republic is fortifying nuclear sites and military camps on its borders.
Its neighbouring countries include the UAE and Saudi Arabia, who have backed Mr Trump since war broke out in February, as well as Iraq, Afghanistan, Oman, Turkmenistan, Pakistan, Bahrain and Qatar.
According to the Wall Street Journal (WSJ), Tehran is even preparing its people for a 'renewed' conflict.
The Iranian government has begun sending troops to read war stories to schoolchildren, holding political rallies and teaching civilians how to use handheld anti-aircraft weapons.
The government has created billboard signs advertising sniper courses and training in how to use shoulder-fired missile systems.
US President Donald Trump has hinted that he may order new strikes on Iranian targets after next month's midterm elections
Iran has been gearing up civilians for a 'renewed' war against the US, which includes political rallies (File image)
Tehran has also issued training to civilians in how to fire hand-held anti-aircraft weapons. Pictured: Female volunteers attend a training camp named 'Self-Sacrificed for Iran'
The IRGC in November claimed it had trained the first female 'commando' units in guerrilla warfare. Pictured: An Iranian woman ziplines at an Iranian training camp
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps in November claimed it had trained the first female 'commando' units in guerrilla warfare – including firearms and drone piloting training.
The propaganda drive comes amid diplomatic, economic and political strains on the country, which the Iranian people are experiencing as Mr Trump increases sanctions and tightens the blockade against the Islamic Republic.
Sanam Vakil, Middle East director at London's Chatham House think-tank, told the WSJ: 'The war footing is serving them well for now due to an impasse on many fronts—diplomatically, economically and politically.
'With a new war, the Islamic Republic could dig itself out of the cul-de-sac it has dug for itself.'
The newspaper cites Iranian officials as saying troops 'could conduct land incursions into neighbouring countries'.
On Sunday, Iranian national security chief Mohsen Rezaei said the UAE is one possible target with attacks on data centres and internet cables.
Tehran has also warned of targeting Saudi energy infrastructure amid several recent Houthi air strikes on oil facilities in the Middle Eastern country.
According to the WSJ, Mr Trump could be mounting further attacks on Iran as a third aircraft carrier and another US Marine unit have been deployed to the region.
Meanwhile the Pentagon is 'weighing up' sending more air defence equipment and munitions to US bases across the Middle East.
However the President last week said he would not hit Tehran again before the midterm elections next month.