Tehran: Iran's military has announced a significant incentive, declaring a $30,000 bounty for the killing or capturing of US soldiers, with the reward doubled if the act is performed by a woman. This announcement on Sunday marks a provocative move in the ongoing tensions between Tehran and Washington.

According to France24.com, Army Chief Amir Hatami revealed that the decision was driven by numerous requests to participate in actions against US personnel. While there have been no known deployments of US ground forces in Iran during the ongoing Middle East conflict, except for an April rescue mission, the announcement further escalates the hostile environment.

Hatami did not specify any details regarding the expected locations or timing for the killing or capturing of US soldiers. He stated, "Anyone who kills or captures and hands over an invading American military personnel will receive a reward equivalent to $30,000 or 5 billion tomans from the Islamic Republic of Iran's Army." He further added that "courageous Iranian women who carry out such an action will receive double the reward."

The Iranian military's announcement comes amidst a backdrop of continued tensions since the war between Tehran and Washington began on February 28, following an attack by the United States and Israel on Iran. Despite a brief ceasefire in April after nearly 40 days of conflict, sporadic fighting has persisted, primarily in southern Iran and around the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

The ongoing conflict has resulted in the deaths of 17 US military personnel, all occurring outside of Iran in countries such as Jordan and Iraq. Diplomatic efforts remain stalled, with indirect communications through mediators showing little sign of progress, as Iran continues to assert demands for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, including compensation for war damages.