Iran has announced a $30,000 reward for anyone who captures or kills US military personnel and hands them over to Iranian authorities, according to reports.
Iranian Army Chief Amir Hatami reportedly said the reward would be doubled if the operation was carried out by a woman. He said the plan was prepared following requests from a large number of people.
According to the reported announcement, anyone who captures or kills a US soldier and hands the person over to Iranian authorities would receive $30,000. The amount was reported as equivalent to around 5 billion Iranian tomans.
Hatami also renewed calls for the United States to withdraw its military presence from the Middle East. He warned that US forces would not be allowed to enter the Persian Gulf, Gulf of Oman or Strait of Hormuz.
The announcement comes amid heightened tensions between Tehran and Washington. Both countries have continued to exchange strong warnings as regional military tensions remain high.
Foreign media reports have indicated that there is no known regular deployment of US ground forces inside Iran. However, US personnel reportedly entered the country in April during a recovery operation following the crash of an American aircraft.
Hatami’s remarks further highlight Tehran’s opposition to any US military presence near Iran’s territory and strategic waterways. The Strait of Hormuz remains particularly important because of its role in global energy supplies.
The reported reward announcement could further increase concerns about the safety of US personnel in the region. It also comes as diplomatic efforts continue amid wider tensions involving Iran, the United States and countries across the Middle East.
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