Iran's military announced on Tuesday a new threat targeting 18 United States companies operating in the Middle East. State media reported that these actions are a direct response to what Iran calls “espionage entities” supporting the “warmongering government of the United States.”

Designated Tech Targets and Timeline

Specific Companies Named

The threat specifically names major technology corporations such as Apple, Google, Meta, and Microsoft. Iran asserts these firms have aided in “US-Israeli terror operations” since the conflict began on February 28.

The military also called out firms deeply involved with US military activities, including Palantir and Oracle. Oracle, founded in the 1970s, was mentioned in connection with these ongoing hostilities.

Imminent Strike Date

The planned strikes against these US tech companies and their regional properties are scheduled to commence on April 1 at 8 p.m. local time in Iran. This corresponds to 12:30 p.m. Eastern Time in the US.

Many targeted companies maintain offices in key locations like Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and Abu Dhabi. These locations are cited as potential targets for Iranian drone and missile attacks should the threat be executed.

Military Warning and Evacuation Advisory

Legitimate Targets Declared

A statement released to Press TV by the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps declared, “In response to this terrorist operation, henceforth, the main institutions involved in terrorist activities will be considered legitimate targets.”

The military issued a stark warning to personnel working at these facilities. They strongly advised employees to “immediately leave their workplaces to protect their lives.”

Civilian Evacuation Urged

Furthermore, residents living near the designated sites were also warned. The statement urged individuals within a one-kilometer radius of these “terrorist companies” across the region to evacuate to safer areas.

Context of Escalation and Previous Attacks

Prior Attacks on Infrastructure

During the first week of the war, Iran reportedly struck two Amazon data centers located in the United Arab Emirates and one in Bahrain. These facilities utilize Amazon Web Services, which allegedly suffered power outages and water damage from firefighting efforts.

Shifting US Stance and Regional Instability

The article notes a contrast between President Donald Trump’s previous pledge to avoid “regime change wars” and current actions by him and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who have reportedly boasted about the assassination of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

The current objectives of the war remain unclear, especially since Khamenei’s reportedly more radical son has assumed leadership. The conflict has also impacted global energy markets, as Iran restricted traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, causing oil and natural gas prices to surge.

President Trump has recently indicated a desire to “keep the oil” and hinted at a potential ground invasion while deploying additional troops to the area.

Iranian Official's Assessment

Araghchi's Confidence on State TV

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi appeared on Press TV on Tuesday, discussing the defense of his nation against the US and Israel. He insisted that Iran currently holds a “stronger position” with undeployed capabilities.

Araghchi stated, “There are still many surprises ahead, things the Americans and Israelis have yet to face.” He specifically mentioned possessing electromagnetic weapons capable of disabling city-wide power and electronic systems without civilian harm.

Strategic Restraint Claimed

The Foreign Minister explained that these advanced capabilities have not been deployed because there has been an effort to avoid severe targeting of infrastructure. He concluded that this restraint means Iran has “no concern about the war continuing or becoming prolonged.”

Casualty Figures Reported

The article provides recent casualty statistics since the war began: 1,937 killed and 24,800 injured in Iran. In Lebanon, 1,238 people have been killed with 3,543 injured amid a concurrent war with Israel. Israel has reported 20 fatalities and 6,008 injuries.

Araghchi asserted that the American strategy failed against Iran. He told Press TV that the US plan for a swift operation, quick victory, and exit “simply did not work against Iran.”