Tehran: In a sharp escalation of tensions in the ongoing Middle East conflict, Iran has issued a strong warning to the United States, threatening retaliation if Washington does not officially condemn alleged attacks on Iranian universities by 12 noon (Tehran time) on Monday.
According to statements released by Iran’s powerful Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), American and Israeli-affiliated universities in West Asia could be treated as “legitimate targets” if the demand is not met.
Deadline and Direct Warning
Iran has set a clear ultimatum to the US government.
“If the US government wants its universities… free from retaliation, it must condemn the bombing… by 12 noon,” the IRGC said in its statement.
The warning comes amid Iran’s allegations that recent US-Israeli strikes targeted its academic institutions, including the University of Science and Technology in Tehran.
Advisory to Stay Away from Campuses
In an unusual move, Iran also issued a public safety advisory related to the threat.
“We advise all employees, professors, and students… to stay one kilometre away,” the statement said.
The IRGC reiterated that faculty, students, and nearby residents should maintain at least a 1 km distance from such campuses for safety.
Universities Declared Potential Targets
Iran’s warning specifically mentions US and Israeli-linked universities in the Middle East, many of which operate branch campuses in Gulf countries such as Qatar and the UAE.
Officials stated that these institutions would remain under threat until Iran’s demands are met, calling them “legitimate targets” in retaliation for attacks on Iran’s educational infrastructure.
Context: Escalating Regional Conflict
The warning comes as the broader Iran–US–Israel conflict intensifies, with ongoing airstrikes, missile attacks, and rising civilian impact across the region.
Iran has accused the US and its allies of deliberately targeting scientific and cultural infrastructure, while Washington and its partners continue military operations in Iran.
Global Concerns Rising
The development has raised serious concerns internationally, as targeting educational institutions would mark a dangerous escalation in the conflict. Analysts warn that such threats could further widen the war and endanger civilians across multiple countries.
Diplomatic efforts are ongoing, but with Iran issuing deadlines and explicit warnings, the situation remains highly volatile.
