Story perspectives

NYU Abu Dhabi Closes Amid Iranian Threats to U.S. Universities

3/31/2026

Summary

Story summary

New York University’s Abu Dhabi campus closes indefinitely after Iran warns that American universities in the Gulf are legitimate targets.
The closure follows U.S. and Israeli military actions against Iranian universities.
Georgetown University and Arkansas State University have moved to remote learning.
Rice University canceled a summer program in Jordan.
The College Board postponed the SAT for about 11,000 students in the region because of the conflict.

History

Historical Context

The Iranian Revolution of 1979, which overthrew Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, established an Islamic Republic under Ayatollah Khomeini, fundamentally altering U.S.-Iran relations. Following the revolution, the U.S. imposed sanctions, leading to strained ties and threats against American institutions, including universities. The ongoing closure of New York University’s Abu Dhabi campus highlights the lasting impact of the revolution on educational exchanges and regional security.

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Story summary

New York University’s Abu Dhabi campus closes indefinitely after Iran warns that American universities in the Gulf are legitimate targets.
The closure follows U.S. and Israeli military actions against Iranian universities.
Georgetown University and Arkansas State University have moved to remote learning.
Rice University canceled a summer program in Jordan.
The College Board postponed the SAT for about 11,000 students in the region because of the conflict.

1 / 2