US intelligence agencies investigate leak of classified documents on Israeli plans to strike Iran

Photo: Mike Johnson/REUTERS/Anna Rose Layden

The United States is investigating a leak of top-secret intelligence documents that describe Israel's preparations for a retaliatory strike on Iran, House Speaker Mike Johnson said on Sunday, October 20, Reuters reports.

The documents appear to have been prepared by the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency and are the U.S. intelligence community's interpretation of Israel's plans based on satellite images taken on October 15 and 16.

The two documents began circulating last week on Telegram. Israel was planning a response to Iran's October 1 ballistic missile launch, the second direct attack on Israel in six months. Israel also stepped up its offensive in Gaza and Lebanon days after killing Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar.

Asked about the leaked documents in an interview with CNN, Johnson said “the investigation (is underway) and I'll have information on that in a couple of hours,” adding “…we're watching it closely.”

200% Deposit Bonus up to €3,000 180% First Deposit Bonus up to $20,000

The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence did not respond to requests for comment. The Pentagon said it was looking into the leak reports.

The New York Times reported that officials have privately acknowledged the documents are authentic, but they likely represent only part of the information the U.S. has about its close ally's plans.

The first document is titled “Israel: Air Force Continues Preparations for Strike on Iran, Conducts Second Large-Force Exercise”. It describes activities including operations to prepare ballistic missiles and air-to-surface missiles.

Another report, titled “Israel: Defense Forces Continue Preparing Key Munitions, Covert UAV Activity Almost Certainly for Strike on Iran”.

U.S. President Joe Biden, answering questions from reporters last week, said he had a good idea of ​​when and how Israel would attack Iran. But he also said he saw an opportunity to achieve a ceasefire.

Prepared by: Sergei Daga