AI Infrastructure Alert: IRGC Threatens Attacks on US Tech Firms in Middle East

A branch of Iran’s armed forces, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), has threatened to launch attacks targeting US technology companies operating in the Middle East. In a statement issued on Wednesday (1 April), employees of 18 companies were instructed to “immediately leave their workplaces.” The companies listed include Apple, Google, Meta, Microsoft, Nvidia, Tesla, Oracle, Amazon, and Intel, according to Engadget.

In the statement, the IRGC said, “US information technology and AI companies are key components in the design and tracking of terrorist targets. In response to this terrorist operation, the core institutions playing an effective role in such operations are now our legitimate targets.” According to the warning, the attacks could begin from Wednesday evening.

The use of AI technology has sparked controversy since the United States and Israel launched attacks on Iran at the end of last February. The IRGC cited several factors behind its warning, including OpenAI’s agreement with the Pentagon, attempts to use Anthropic’s technology, and Israel’s own AI platforms. On 8 March, Iranian drones reportedly attacked Amazon data centers in the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain.

US officials have stated that they are on “heightened alert” but are not panicked. However, analysts have warned that if the attacks are carried out, they could have widespread impacts on global digital infrastructure. Among the potential targets, 10 operate some of the world’s largest data centers. Iran has demonstrated capabilities in cyber and drone attacks in recent months. Reports indicate that on Monday night, an Iranian hacker group hacked the official website of Iran International and attempted to steal data from a UAE-based energy company.

This warning comes amid fears of an expansion of regional conflict in the Middle East. Iran’s Supreme Leader said last week, “The enemy’s advance must be stopped at any cost.”

DBTech/BMT/OR