Kathmandu— Iran’s army announced Sunday it would offer rewards of up to $30,000 – or 5 billion Iranian tomans – to any Iranian citizen who kills or captures a U.S. servicemember, warning Washington against deploying troops on Iranian soil. The initiative, unveiled by Army Chief Amir Hatami, comes after reported requests from Iranians wanting to participate in the nation’s defense and follows recent escalations in regional conflict and speculation about potential military operations targeting Iran's nuclear facilities. Hatami also stated that weapons used in such actions would be purchased by the state and displayed in a museum, with owners receiving replacements.

Bounty Program Details

According to Hatami’s remarks carried by Iranian state broadcaster IRIB, the bounty will be awarded for either killing or capturing and surrendering an American servicemember. He specified that Iranian women who successfully carry out this action would receive double the reward – $60,000 or 10 billion tomans. The army chief further announced that any weapons used to kill American troops would be purchased by the state for twice their value and exhibited in a planned museum, with replacements provided to the owners.

Escalating Regional Tensions

The announcement follows reports of potential U.S. military operations within Iran, including a possible raid to seize enriched uranium from heavily fortified nuclear facilities. These reported plans could involve thousands of troops securing sites while elite units retrieve the material. While no ground operation has yet been launched, U.S. personnel have already found themselves on Iranian soil this year; an F-15E fighter jet crashed in Iran in April, prompting search and rescue operations for its two crew members. Tehran reportedly offered rewards for their capture at that time, though both airmen were ultimately recovered by U.S. forces.

Calls for US Withdrawal

Hatami also issued a demand for American forces to leave the Middle East, stating they are “no longer permitted” in the Persian Gulf, the Sea of Oman, and the Strait of Hormuz. He added that Tehran would not allow U.S. bases in the region to return to their “previous state.” This statement comes after the US and Israel launched a military campaign against Iran in late February, accusing it of pursuing nuclear weapons – allegations Iran denies.

Failed Ceasefire Efforts

Iran retaliated against the initial U.S.-Israeli campaign with strikes on American and Israeli targets across the region. A temporary ceasefire subsequently collapsed, and indirect negotiations have failed to produce a lasting settlement. Washington has maintained military and economic pressure on Tehran while Iran continues to assert that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes.

The situation remains tense as both sides continue to accuse each other of escalating conflict, with no immediate prospects for renewed negotiations or de-escalation.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.