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Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Targets U.S. Tech Giants Amid Rising Geopolitical Tensions

Threats Against Leading U.S. Technology Firms

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned that several U.S. technology companies operating in the Middle East could face risks if tensions escalate further. According to messages circulated on affiliated Telegram channels, companies including Nvidia, Apple, Microsoft, and Google were referenced in the warning.

Clear Warning And Immediate Directives

In an ominous declaration, militants stated, “From now on, for every assassination, an American company will be destroyed.” The directive, which was set to take effect from 8 p.m. Tehran time (12:30 p.m. EDT) on April 1, advises employees to evacuate their workplaces immediately to ensure their safety. The list of targeted companies extends further to include industry leaders such as Cisco, HP, Intel, Oracle, IBM, Dell, and Palantir, alongside prominent financial and industrial entities like JPMorgan, Tesla, GE, and Boeing, as well as UAE-based artificial intelligence firm G42.

Regional Impact And Strategic Shifts

The warning follows recent escalation in the Middle East, including reported strikes affecting digital infrastructure and services in parts of the Gulf region. U.S. technology companies have increased investment in regional data centers and AI infrastructure, attracted by energy availability and expansion capacity.

Corporate Responses And Broader Implications

Intel said employee safety remains a priority and that measures are in place to protect personnel and facilities. Other companies, including Microsoft, Google, and JPMorgan, have not publicly commented. Rising tensions come amid continued military activity in the region, including drone and missile exchanges across multiple countries.

Looking Ahead

The situation introduces additional risk for companies operating in the Middle East, particularly those with infrastructure and personnel in key markets. Further developments may affect investment decisions, operations, and security planning for multinational firms.

Robust Cyprus Construction Activity Bolsters Vassilico Cement’s 2025 Performance

Vassilico Cement Works Public Company Ltd reported a net profit of €35.52 million for 2025, supported by strong construction activity in Cyprus. Company profit reached €34.99 million, reflecting higher revenues and improved operating performance.

Domestic Market Growth Driven By Cyprus Construction

Group revenue rose to €152.75 million, while company revenue reached €152.66 million, up 11% year on year. Growth was driven by increased sales volumes in the domestic market, where construction activity remained strong throughout the year.

Enhanced Production Efficiency And Cost Management

Gross profit increased to €50.30 million at group level and €50.21 million at company level, compared with €42.49 million in 2024. The improvement reflects gains in production efficiency and cost control, supported by higher use of alternative fuels and improved electricity efficiency. These measures reduced unit costs while supporting environmental targets.

Executive Insights And Macroeconomic Outlook

Executive Chairman Antonis Antoniou said strong domestic demand supported production volumes, with the company maintaining focus on the local market and managing exports selectively. He added that favorable economic conditions in Cyprus contributed to performance, despite regulatory pressures in Europe and broader geopolitical uncertainty.

Navigating Energy And Regulatory Challenges

Future performance will be influenced by energy market volatility and European climate policy, including carbon pricing and the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism. Rising fuel and electricity costs continue to affect energy-intensive industries.

The company is expanding its renewable energy capacity, with a photovoltaic park reaching 16MW and plans for an additional 8MW, subject to grid connection. The investments aim to improve cost stability and energy efficiency.

Shareholder Returns And Strategic Investments

The board approved an interim dividend of €0.15 per share, totaling €10.79 million, on September 25, 2025. A final dividend of €16.55 million, or €0.23 per share, will be proposed. Combined, total dividends amount to €27.34 million, or €0.38 per share.

Management said the company will continue focusing on efficiency, cost control and sustainability as it navigates energy market pressures and regulatory requirements.

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