IRGC Threatens Retaliation Against American and Israeli Universities

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has issued a statement declaring that American and Israeli universities in the Middle East will become legitimate targets in response to a reported attack on the Iran University of Science and Technology in Tehran. This announcement was made through the semi-official Tasnim News Agency, which detailed the IRGC's ultimatum to the United States.

The Jerusalem Post

The IRGC's statement emphasized that the United States must condemn the bombing of Iranian universities by Monday, or face consequences. The group specifically warned that if U.S. President Donald Trump wishes to avert attacks, he must prevent allied forces from targeting educational institutions. The IRGC's threats highlight a significant escalation in rhetoric, as they assert that all Israeli and American universities in the West Asia region will be at risk until two Iranian universities are struck in retaliation.

The Jerusalem Post

The tensions between Iran and the United States have been exacerbated by ongoing military actions and accusations of targeting educational institutions. The IRGC's threats come amid a broader context of conflict in the region, where both sides have engaged in hostile exchanges. The attack on the Iran University of Science and Technology has been characterized by Iranian officials as part of a systematic effort to undermine Iranian educational and research capabilities.

The Jerusalem Post

In its statement, the IRGC made it clear that the U.S. government must take immediate action to address the situation. The ultimatum reflects a broader strategy by the IRGC to assert its influence and retaliate against perceived aggressions. The U.S. government has not yet publicly responded to the IRGC's threats.

The Jerusalem Post

Critics of the IRGC's threats argue that such rhetoric could lead to further escalation of violence in the region. Analysts warn that targeting educational institutions could have dire consequences for civilian populations and exacerbate existing tensions between Iran and the West. There are concerns that this approach may not only endanger students and faculty but also undermine diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing conflict.

The Jerusalem Post

While the IRGC claims that American and Israeli universities will be targeted, there is no independent verification of the reported attack on the Iran University of Science and Technology. Additionally, the extent of the IRGC's operational capabilities to carry out such threats remains unclear, leading to discrepancies in assessments of the situation.

The Jerusalem Post

• “the United States should be aware that all Israeli and American universities located in the West Asia region would become legitimate targets until two universities are struck in retaliation for the destroyed Iranian universities.” — IRGC Statement

The Jerusalem Post

• “must stop its allied forces from attacking universities and research centers; otherwise, the threat remains valid and will be carried out.” — IRGC Statement

The Jerusalem Post

This situation continues to develop, and further responses from the U.S. government and international community are anticipated as the deadline set by the IRGC approaches.

The Jerusalem Post