Leaked Documents Reveal US Intelligence on Israel’s Potential Iran Strike: Investigation Underway
The United States is currently investigating the unauthorized release of classified documents outlining Israel’s potential plans to attack Iran, The Associated Press reports.
The documents, marked “top secret,” were initially posted on the Telegram messaging app and reported by CNN and Axios.
The documents, attributed to the US Geospatial Intelligence Agency and National Security Agency, indicate Israel’s ongoing mobilization of military assets in preparation for a strike in retaliation for Iran’s recent ballistic missile attack on October 1st. These documents were intended for sharing within the “Five Eyes” intelligence alliance, which includes the US, Great Britain, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia.
US officials, speaking on the condition of anonymity, confirmed the authenticity of the documents and stated that the investigation is focused on both the source of the leak and any potential compromise of additional sensitive intelligence. The investigation aims to determine whether the leak was intentional or unintentional, and whether it resulted from a hack or other method. Authorities are also tracing the documents’ access history to identify individuals who had access before their publication.
The leak comes amidst heightened tensions in the region, with the US urging Israel to pursue a ceasefire following its recent military operation in Gaza and cautioning against further expansion into Lebanon. However, Israel has repeatedly emphasized its commitment to responding to Iran’s missile attack.
The Pentagon, while acknowledging the reports, has refrained from providing further comment. The Israeli military has not yet responded to requests for comment on the leaked documents.
The documents, first appearing online Friday, were published on a Telegram channel claiming to be based in Tehran, Iran. This channel has previously shared pro-Iran content, including memes featuring Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and supporting material for the “Axis of Resistance,” a coalition of Middle Eastern militant groups supported by Iran.
One of the leaked documents resembles the style of materials leaked by Jack Teixeira, an Air National Guardsman who pleaded guilty in March to disseminating classified military documents about the Russia-Ukraine war and other national security secrets. The Telegram channel involved in the leak presents itself as a source within the US intelligence community.
