The American University of Armenia (AUA) transitioned to online learning due to escalating threats originating from Iran. This precautionary measure followed Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) warning of targeting US and Israeli universities within West Asia as retribution for attacks on Iranian institutions. The AUA emphasized that it hadn’t received direct threats, yet closely monitored the situation, promising updates if changes occurred.
The IRGC issued the warning on March 29th, coinciding with the ongoing conflict between the US and Israel. Their statement demanded a condemnation of university bombings by the US government by Monday, March 30th, alongside a cessation of allied forces’ attacks on universities and research centers. Failure to comply, the IRGC stated, would maintain the threat.
Following this development, the American University of Beirut also moved to online classes, and the US Embassy in Iraq cautioned about potential targeting of American universities in Baghdad, Sulaymaniyah, and Dohuk. Armenia has maintained strong relations with Iran, sharing an open border and supporting a population of approximately 60,000 to 80,000 ethnic Armenians. The Armenian government’s 2021-2026 program designates the bilateral relationship as “special,” aiming to further develop ties.
Armenia recently sent humanitarian aid to Iran, primarily consisting of medicine, reflecting the ongoing situation and the country’s continued diplomatic engagement with Iran. The events underscore the delicate balance Armenia maintains amidst the broader conflict and the safety concerns impacting institutions like the American University in Armenia.
Topics: #armenia #american #university
The American University of Armenia has moved to online instruction in response to increasing dangers linked to Iran. This decision was taken as a protective step after the Iranian Revolutionary Guard