The United States is conducting an investigation into the unauthorized disclosure of highly classified intelligence pertaining to Israel’s potential retaliatory actions against Iran. The authenticity of the leaked documents has been verified by one of the individuals with knowledge of the matter.
The disclosure of classified information is a matter of grave concern, as confirmed by a high-ranking U.S. government official to CNN.
Documents leaked reveal US information on Israel’s plans to strike Iran, according to CNN sources
The documents, dated Oct, 15 and 16, began circulating online Friday after being posted on Telegram by an account called “Middle East Spectator.”
The documents are classified as top secret and are intended solely for the perusal of the United States and its esteemed “Five Eyes” allies, namely Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.
They describe preparations Israel appears to be making for a strike against Iran. One of the documents, which says it was compiled by the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, says the plans involve Israel moving munitions around.
Another document says it is sourced to the National Security Agency and outlines Israeli air force exercises involving air-to-surface missiles, also believed to be in preparation for a strike on Iran. CNN is not quoting directly from or showing the documents.
A U.S. official said the investigation is examining who had access to the alleged Pentagon document. Any such leak would automatically trigger an investigation by the FBI alongside the Pentagon and U.S. intelligence agencies. The FBI declined to comment.
The disclosure occurs at a particularly delicate juncture in U.S.-Israeli relations and is likely to cause displeasure among the Israelis, who have been making preparations to launch a strike against Iran in retaliation for Iran’s missile barrage on October 1.
“If it is accurate that Israeli tactical plans to counter Iran’s attack on October 1st have been compromised, it constitutes a grave breach of security,” stated Mick Mulroy, a former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for the Middle East and a retired CIA officer.
Mulroy further noted that the potential for future collaboration between the United States and Israel may face challenges. Trust serves as a crucial element in this relationship, and the manner in which this information was leaked could potentially undermine that trust.