Security fears escalate as Iranian forces label US academic institutions “legitimate targets” following regional strikes.
Several major American universities have suspended operations across the Middle East after escalating tensions and direct threats from Iran. Institutions including New York University, Cornell University, Georgetown University, and Northwestern University have temporarily closed campuses in Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.
The move follows warnings from Iran’s powerful Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which declared American educational institutions in the region “legitimate targets.” The threat comes after a reported U.S.-Israeli campaign targeting Iranian-linked sites, including academic facilities.
University officials cited student and staff safety as the primary reason for suspending in-person activities. Many campuses have shifted to remote learning while monitoring the rapidly evolving security situation.
Regional governments have not confirmed specific threats against individual campuses but are reportedly increasing security around foreign institutions. Analysts warn the development signals a widening scope of geopolitical confrontation, extending beyond military and political targets into education.
The closures highlight growing risks for international institutions operating in volatile regions, raising concerns about long-term academic partnerships and student mobility in the Gulf.
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