Leaked documents show US intelligence on Israel’s plans to attack Iran, sources say
The U.S. is investigating a leak of highly classified intelligence regarding Israel’s plans for retaliation against Iran, according to three individuals familiar with the matter, one of whom confirmed the authenticity of the documents.
A U.S. official described the leak as “deeply concerning” in a statement to CNN.
The documents, dated October 15 and 16, began circulating online on Friday after being posted on Telegram by an account called Middle East Spectator. They are marked top secret and designated for viewing only by the U.S. and its Five Eyes intelligence-sharing partners: Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the UK.
The documents detail apparent preparations by Israel for a potential strike on Iran. One document, reportedly compiled by the National Geospatial Intelligence Agency, describes Israel moving munitions in preparation for such an attack. Another, sourced to the National Security Agency, outlines Israeli Air Force exercises involving air-to-surface missiles, which are also believed to be part of the preparations for a strike on Iran. CNN is not quoting directly from or displaying the documents.
A U.S. official confirmed that an investigation is underway to determine who had access to the leaked Pentagon document. Such leaks typically prompt an FBI investigation alongside inquiries by the Pentagon and U.S. intelligence agencies. The FBI declined to comment.
The National Security Council referred CNN to the Office of the Director of National Intelligence and the Pentagon for comment. Both the Pentagon and the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency declined to comment. CNN has also reached out to the National Security Agency.
It remains unclear how the documents were made public or whether they were hacked or intentionally leaked.
