The United States is investigating the leak of two highly classified intelligence documents that outline Israel’s preparations for a potential retaliatory strike on Iran, as stated by House Speaker Mike Johnson on Sunday.
These documents, reportedly produced by the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, provide insights into U.S. assessments of Israeli Air Force and Navy planning, based on satellite imagery from October 15-16. They began circulating on the Telegram messaging app last week. This comes as Israel has been formulating a response to a ballistic missile attack by Iran on October 1, marking the second such assault on Israel in six months. Following the killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, Israel has increased its military operations in Gaza and Lebanon.
In an interview with CNN, Johnson confirmed that an investigation is underway and that he would receive a briefing soon. “We are following it closely,” he remarked.
Neither the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency nor the Office of the Director of National Intelligence responded to requests for comments, but the Pentagon has acknowledged it is looking into the leak reports. The New York Times has reported that officials privately confirmed the documents’ authenticity, suggesting they likely represent only a fraction of the intelligence available regarding Israel’s military planning.
The first document is titled “Israel: Air Force Continues Preparations for Strike on Iran and Conducts a Second Large-Force Employment Exercise,” detailing missile handling activities. The second document, “Israel: Defense Forces Continue Key Munitions Preparations and Covert UAV Activity Almost Certainly for a Strike on Iran,” focuses on Israel’s drone operations in anticipation of a strike.
U.S. President Joe Biden, addressing reporters last week, indicated that he has a clear understanding of Israel’s potential timeline and methods for attacking Iran, while also expressing hope for a resolution to the ongoing conflict between the two nations.
