Iran's IRGC Threatens 18 US Tech Giants Across Middle East Retaliating Strikes

Iran's IRGC named 18 US companies as military targets across the Middle East.

The threat came as US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned the next few days would be decisive.

Al Jazeera

The IRGC framed the strikes as revenge for US assassinations of Iranian officials and defense contracts involvement.

The US conducted its first strikes directly targeting economic and industrial infrastructure.

Pentagon spokesman John Kirby acknowledged the campaign was intended to bring the Iranian system to its knees.

Al-Jazeera Net

Iran retaliated by hitting several cargo vessels in the Persian Gulf.

Iran's defense ministry warned it would strike American interests across the region.

The IRGC threat named specific targets including US Embassy compound and consulates in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Riyadh, and Jeddah.

The US State Department evacuated Embassy Abu Dhabi.

Oil prices surged above $220 per barrel.

Insurers warned disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz could shut down more than 20% of global oil trade.

BBC

Asian markets tumbled, with Hong Kong's Hang Seng Index falling nearly 9%.