An Iranian hacking group has threatened to launch cyberattacks against water infrastructure in the United States if Washington continues striking Iranian facilities. In a message posted on Telegram, the group warned that previous incidents involving American water systems prove such threats are credible and cautioned against targeting Iran's own infrastructure.

The hackers have recently escalated their activity, claiming responsibility for breaching the personal email account of Federal Bureau of Investigation Director Kash Patel. The group, known as Handala Hack Team, published personal photographs of Patel online as part of what cybersecurity experts describe as a broader effort to embarrass American officials and make them feel vulnerable.

The threats come amid rising tensions following coordinated strikes by the United States and Israel on Iranian targets. Iran has signaled it may retaliate against critical infrastructure in the region, while expanding its offensive cyber capabilities and supporting affiliated hacking groups.

In recent years, Iran-linked actors have targeted American political campaigns, water facilities, military networks, and private companies connected to defense and energy sectors. Analysts say the strategy aims to increase economic and political pressure by disrupting infrastructure and raising the costs of ongoing conflict.