Pakistan, June 23 -- WASHINGTON - Iran has issued a strong warning to the United States, threatening retaliation against American military bases in the Middle East following devastating US airstrikes on its nuclear facilities. The strikes have triggered widespread concern over a possible escalation of conflict in the already tense region.

Ali Akbar Velayati, senior advisor to Iran's Supreme Leader, declared that any country allowing US forces to launch attacks on Iran would be treated as a legitimate target. He said the US has struck "the heart of the Islamic world" and must prepare for serious consequences.

The US airstrikes, which hit key nuclear sites in Fordow, Isfahan, and Natanz, were described by President Donald Trump as a "spec...