US Investigates Leaked Documents Alleging Israel Plans to Attack Iran
Israeli soldiers in the southern Lebanese village of Naqoura along the boundary with Israel. Photograph: Dpa Picture Alliance/Alamy Live News
US Investigates Leaked Documents Alleging Israel Plans to Attack Iran
The US government has launched an investigation into the unauthorized release of classified documents that reportedly outline Israel’s plans to conduct a military strike against Iran. This revelation comes as tensions in the region continue to escalate.
Investigation Confirmation
During an appearance on CNN’s State of the Union on Sunday, House Speaker Mike Johnson confirmed the investigation, expressing concern over the serious allegations made in the leaked documents. “There’s some serious allegations being made there,” the Republican from Louisiana stated, indicating that he would receive a briefing on the matter shortly.
A US official informed the Associated Press that the documents appear to be legitimate, though their authenticity has yet to be independently verified by other news outlets.
Content of the Leaked Documents
The documents are attributed to the US Geospatial Intelligence Agency and the National Security Agency, and they bear a style familiar to previous Pentagon leaks. One document is titled “Israel: Air Force Continues Preparations for Strike on Iran,” while another is labeled “Israel: Defense Forces Continue Key Munitions Preparations and Covert UAV Activity Almost Certainly for a Strike on Iran.” Both are dated October 16 and were leaked a day later.
These documents suggest that Israel was actively positioning its military assets in response to Iran’s ballistic missile attack on October 1. They detail preparations involving air-launched ballistic missiles, refueling aircraft, and covert long-range drone surveillance across the Middle East, implying that Israel might be planning a long-range missile response to Iran’s actions.
Monitoring and Intelligence Sharing
The documents reflect efforts by the US and its allies to monitor Israel’s military intentions, although they do not specify potential targets within Iran. Notably, they indicate no evidence that Israel is considering the use of nuclear weapons.
Among the systems mentioned are the Rocks missiles, designed for both above and below ground targets, and another unnamed ballistic system referred to as Golden Horizon. Speculation among Israeli media suggests this could relate to Blue Sparrow missiles, which are believed to have been used in a limited strike against Iran earlier this year.
The documents are categorized for sharing within the Five Eyes intelligence alliance, which includes the US, UK, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia, with some sections marked for sharing only between the US and UK.
Nature of the Leak
The documents, marked as top secret, were disseminated through the Telegram messaging app and first reported by CNN and Axios. The investigation is examining how these documents were obtained, whether through an intentional leak by someone within the US intelligence community or via other means such as hacking.
Officials are also assessing who had access to the documents prior to their release. The Pentagon acknowledged awareness of the leaked reports but declined to provide further comments.
Regional Implications
As the investigation unfolds, the US has urged Israel to capitalize on its recent elimination of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar and to seek a cease-fire in Gaza. The Biden administration has also cautioned Israel against expanding military operations in Lebanon, warning of the risk of a broader regional conflict. However, Israeli leadership has reiterated its commitment to respond to Iran’s missile attacks.
House Speaker Johnson mentioned he spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, emphasizing his support for Israel during this critical time. The Israeli military has yet to comment on the leaked documents, but security officials are expected to convene for discussions.
The leaked documents, which first appeared online via a Telegram channel claiming ties to Tehran, have raised concerns about the integrity of classified intelligence and the ongoing tensions between Israel and Iran.
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Keywords: US investigation, leaked documents, Israel plans attack Iran, House Speaker Mike Johnson, national security, military intelligence, Iran-Israel conflict
