U.S. investigates Israeli retaliation leaks

The U.S. government is investigating an unauthorized release of classified documents detailing Israel’s plans for a potential military strike on Iran, according to House Speaker Mike Johnson.

The documents, attributed to both the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) and National Security Agency (NSA), were posted on a Telegram channel called “Middle East Spectator” last week and assess Israel’s military movements in response to Iran’s October 1 missile attacks.

The leaked documents, marked as “Top Secret,” indicate that Israel has been repositioning military assets, possibly in preparation for a retaliatory strike on Iran. These materials were reportedly shared within the “Five Eyes” intelligence alliance—comprised of the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand—raising concerns about the breach of sensitive intelligence.

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Speaking on CNN’s State of the Union, Johnson confirmed that an investigation into the leak is underway. “There’s a classified-level briefing… we are following it closely,” Johnson said, declining to provide further details on the situation.

The White House and the Department of Justice (DOJ) have both refrained from making public comments. However, a U.S. official speaking to the Associated Press stated that the leaked documents appear legitimate. As of now, the investigation is focusing on how the materials were obtained, whether through a hack or an internal leak by a member of the U.S. intelligence community.

The documents, first shared on Telegram, reportedly show imagery analysis conducted by the NGA, capturing Israeli military activity. Such leaks raise concerns about the security of highly sensitive intelligence and the potential repercussions for U.S.-Israel relations.

The Pentagon stated that it is aware of the reports but declined further comment. Israeli officials have also remained silent on the incident.

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About author:

Dylan Malyasov
Dylan Malyasov
Dylan Malyasov is the editor-in-chief of Defence Blog. He is a journalist, an accredited defense advisor, and a consultant. His background as a defense advisor and consultant adds a unique perspective to his journalistic endeavors, ensuring that his reporting is well-informed and authoritative. read more

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