Iran could retaliate against a potential US military attack by striking American military facilities far beyond the Middle East, including bases in Europe and the Indian Ocean. Russian political analyst Vladimir Shapovalov, deputy director of the Institute of History and Politics at Moscow State Pedagogical University, outlined this scenario in comments reported by Argumenty i Fakty (AiF).

According to Shapovalov, Washington’s overwhelming military superiority does not guarantee protection against an asymmetric response from Tehran. He argued that Iran could inflict significant damage on American interests despite possessing far fewer economic and military resources than the United States.

The analyst pointed to previous Iranian responses to US military actions, which he described as effective demonstrations of Tehran’s ability to retaliate against a more powerful adversary.

Shapovalov also identified potential targets beyond American military installations. These could include oil companies, data centers and telecommunications infrastructure in Persian Gulf countries, expanding the possible consequences of a confrontation well beyond conventional military facilities.

The political scientist separately addressed reports suggesting that Washington might consider using nuclear weapons against Iranian facilities located beneath Pickaxe Mountain.

He noted that installations buried under thick layers of rock would be extremely difficult to destroy, even with exceptionally powerful weapons. Their location deep inside the mountain, he explained, creates substantial obstacles for any attempt to eliminate them through military strikes.

Shapovalov did not entirely rule out the possibility of a US nuclear attack on Iran. However, he expressed hope that the American leadership would ultimately refrain from taking such a step.

The analyst also suggested that the Houthis could become involved if hostilities between Iran, the United States and Israel escalate.

In his assessment, forces aligned with Tehran could increase pressure on Washington and its allies, adding another dimension to a potential military confrontation.