WASHINGTON — Highly classified US intelligence documents leaked on October 18 have revealed Israel’s military preparations for a potential strike on Iran, causing concern among American officials about the disclosure and its potential consequences. The documents, originating from the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, detail recent satellite imagery analysis, shedding light on Israel’s plans in the wake of escalating tensions with Iran.
The two leaked documents, which surfaced on the Telegram app and are being discussed in pro-Iranian circles, provide interpretations of satellite images that indicate Israel’s readiness for an imminent strike. One document, titled “Israel: Air Force Continues Preparations for Strike on Iran,” describes military exercises that appear to rehearse elements of the strike. The second document discusses Israel’s repositioning of missiles and weapons in anticipation of retaliatory strikes from Iran.
These actions follow a cycle of hostilities between the two nations, with the anticipated Israeli strike expected to be in retaliation for an Iranian attack earlier in October. US officials are currently divided over the severity of the leak, as it does not expose any new American capabilities. However, some officials expressed concern that any exposure of an ally’s military strategy is inherently damaging.
US intelligence officials have privately confirmed the authenticity of the documents, though the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence declined to comment publicly. According to the documents, Israel conducted military exercises on October 15, practicing air-to-air refueling, search-and-rescue operations, and preparing long-range ballistic missiles and air refueling planes. Israeli drones have also been conducting covert surveillance on Iran.
President Joe Biden, when asked about the Israeli strike plans, acknowledged his awareness of Israel’s intentions but refrained from providing further details. His response hinted at an understanding between him and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding which targets Israel might prioritize, with Biden previously urging Israel to avoid striking Iran’s nuclear and energy infrastructure due to concerns of an escalation.
While the source of the leak is still being investigated, officials suspect a lower-level government employee may be responsible. The US government has been wary of further intelligence leaks following the major breach in 2023, where Air National Guardsman Jack Teixeira leaked a trove of classified documents on Discord, exposing sensitive information about US intelligence operations in Russia, Ukraine, and other countries.
The current leak, if confined to these two satellite documents, may not result in extensive damage. However, officials are cautious, recalling how the Discord leak initially started with a few documents but quickly expanded into a larger breach.