Why the IRGC wants to target US tech companies like Microsoft, Apple, Google, Intel and Boeing? Explained

Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has issued strong warnings against several major American technology and industrial companies. The IRGC has labeled facilities linked to firms including Microsoft, Apple, Google, Intel, Boeing, and others as potential “legitimate targets” in response to what it calls “terrorist operations” by the United States and Israel.

The threats, circulated through IRGC-linked media like Tasnim News Agency, mark a shift toward “infrastructure warfare,” where civilian and commercial tech assets could be drawn into the conflict.

Reasons Cited for Targeting US Tech Firms

Alleged Links to Military and Intelligence Systems

The IRGC claims that certain US-based technology companies contribute to systems used in intelligence gathering, surveillance, and defense operations. These claims are part of long-standing accusations by Iran that Western technological infrastructure supports military activities.

No independent public evidence has been provided in the statement to substantiate specific operational involvement by the named companies.

Background: Escalating Regional Conflict

The warnings come as the ongoing conflict between Iran, the US, and Israel has intensified. Iran accuses the US and Israel of carrying out strikes on its military, leadership, banks, and other infrastructure. In retaliation, the IRGC has expanded its definition of acceptable targets beyond traditional military sites to include economic and technological infrastructure.

IRGC statements claim that for every alleged “act of terror” or assassination inside Iran, corresponding facilities of these companies will face strikes. They have urged employees at US-linked sites in the region (including Israel and Gulf countries like the UAE, Bahrain, and Qatar) to evacuate for safety.