Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has issued a warning to American and Israeli universities across the Middle East, following US-Israeli strikes that damaged two Iranian universities.
Officials urged staff, professors, and students to keep a safe distance from campuses.
In a statement published by Iranian media on Sunday, March 29, the IRGC warned that US universities in the Gulf region could become targets unless the U.S. officially condemns the attacks on Iranian institutions. The deadline for the U.S. government to respond was set for 12 noon on Monday, March 30, Tehran time.
The statement specifically advised “all employees, professors, and students of American universities in the region and residents of their surrounding areas” to stay at least one kilometer away from campuses, citing security concerns.
Targeted universities and damage reports
The strikes, carried out overnight Friday to Saturday, hit the University of Science and Technology in northeastern Tehran and another unnamed institution. While buildings sustained damage, media reports confirmed there were no casualties.
Several American universities operate campuses throughout the Gulf, including Texas A&M University in Qatar and New York University in the United Arab Emirates, making the warning particularly concerning for students and staff in these locations.
The IRGC warning comes amid escalating tensions between the U.S., Israel, and Iran, following recent military operations and retaliatory attacks across the Middle East. The announcement underscores the growing risk for foreign institutions and personnel in conflict-affected areas.
International observers have expressed concern about potential disruptions to education and the safety of American expatriates in the region. Tehran’s ultimatum places added pressure on Washington to address the situation diplomatically.
