Tensions in the Middle East have reached a critical level. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has threatened major American technology companies, including Meta (parent of Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp), Google and Apple, with potential attacks and urged staff to evacuate offices in the region. The force stated these Silicon Valley firms are now “legitimate targets” due to their alleged role in high-tech warfare.

Tech Companies Declared ‘Legitimate Targets’
In a statement released via Tasnim news agency (as per Al Jazeera), the IRGC warned it may begin targeting US tech firms from April 1. The warning marks a shift from traditional military targets to companies linked with AI and surveillance technologies.

According to AFP, firms such as Intel, Microsoft, Oracle, Nvidia and Tesla were also named, alongside aerospace giant Boeing.

Link to Ongoing Israel-Iran Conflict
The threat is tied to ongoing attacks involving Israel and support from the United States. Iran warned retaliation would follow further targeted killings of its leadership. The statement also urged civilians near such facilities to evacuate within a one-kilometre radius.

Recent Attacks and Rising Risks
This follows weeks of intensified strikes reportedly involving AI-based targeting systems. Meanwhile, Amazon Web Services operations were disrupted earlier this month in Bahrain and the UAE due to drone-related incidents, highlighting rising risks to global tech infrastructure.