Tehran, Feb. 20 -- Iran has warned that United States (US) military bases and assets in the Middle East would be considered "legitimate targets" if Washington launches any attack, according to a letter sent to the United Nations (UN) on Thursday, February 19, amid growing tensions over Iran's nuclear programme.

In the letter, Iran's Permanent Representative to the UN, Amir Saeid Iravani, accused the US of escalating rhetoric and repeatedly threatening the use of force. He urged the UN Security Council to take urgent steps to prevent further deterioration of regional security.

The letter, addressed to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and the President of the Security Council, referred to recent statements by US officials, including ...