Iran attacked AI data centers in the Gulf, and the USA retaliated. These attacks highlight the importance of digital infrastructure in armed conflicts.

In recent months, Iran has targeted several data centers in Gulf states, and the U.S. has attacked a data center in Iran, marking a first in armed conflicts. Among the affected facilities is an Amazon Web Services (AWS) center in Bahrain, which suffered significant damage.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has identified 29 technological targets, including infrastructures associated with giants like Amazon and Google, considering them legitimate targets. Gulf states are massively investing in artificial intelligence, with Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates having ambitious plans in this field.

Experts warn that attacking data centers changes the perception of modern conflicts, as they are essential for civil and military operations. Costs are rising, and investors are becoming cautious, which could affect the development of AI infrastructure in the region. These attacks highlight that digital infrastructure is becoming a strategic target, as important as traditional resources.