The Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) has declared that American and Israeli universities in the West Asia region are considered “legitimate targets” for Iran, following a recent bombing of Tehran University of Science and Technology by US-Israeli forces.

In a statement released Saturday as part of Operation True Promise 4, the IRGC warned that unless the US issues a formal condemnation of the attack by March 30, Tehran time, Iranian forces will target two universities in retaliation. The statement further cautioned students, faculty, and staff to maintain a safe distance of at least one kilometer from such institutions.

The IRGC said that continued attacks on Iranian universities and research centers by American or allied forces will justify further retaliation. The announcement cited Quranic verses to frame the response as defensive and divinely sanctioned.

The threat marks a significant escalation in rhetoric, potentially broadening the conflict to include civilian and academic sites associated with foreign powers in the region. Analysts warn that targeting educational institutions could increase regional tensions and raise international concern over civilian safety and global diplomatic responses.