Ex-CIA officer indicted for leaking Israeli attack plans on Iran: NYT
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The breach has set off serious concerns within US intelligence and defense circles, as the disclosure of such information could impact regional stability and national security.
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The seal of the Central Intelligence Agency at CIA headquarters in Langley, Va., April 13, 2016. (AP)
The New York Times on Tuesday reported that Asif W. Rahman, a former CIA employee, has been indicted on charges of leaking classified documents that reveal sensitive information regarding "Israel's" plans to attack Iran.
Citing court documents and sources familiar with the case, the report states that Rahman was charged last week in a Virginia federal court with two counts of unauthorized retention and transmission of national defense information.
Rahman's actions allegedly involved leaking classified materials prepared by the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA).
What did the leaks contain?
These highly sensitive files surfaced on the Middle East Spectator, a Telegram channel specializing in Middle Eastern affairs.
The documents included satellite imagery and intelligence assessments marked as "Top Secret" and designated "Five Eyes" (FVEY)—intended only for the intelligence services of the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
One document, dated October 15-16, details a "large-force employment" exercise by the Israeli Air Force involving 16 Golden Horizon air-launched ballistic missiles (ALBMs) and 40 Rocks stand-off air-launched missiles.
The exercise included air refueling and UAV operations, carried out at Hatserim, Ramat David, and Ramon Airbases.
Read more: Satellite images show damage to Nevatim base from Iranian missiles: AP
Another report assesses the preparedness of "Israel's" missile, nuclear, and air defense capabilities, highlighting that while ballistic missile handling was rated as "medium," precision-guided munitions handling remained low.
The breach has set off serious concerns within US intelligence and defense circles, as the disclosure of such information could impact regional stability and national security.
Rahman detained in Cambodia
According to NYT, Rahman was arrested by the FBI in Cambodia before being transferred to a federal court in Guam.
The FBI, which confirmed in October that it was investigating the suspected leak, has been coordinating with the Pentagon and intelligence agencies to assess the scope and impact of the disclosure.
Responding to the case, White House National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby expressed deep concern over the incident, condemning the leak as "unacceptable."
He further touched on the risks associated with unauthorized disclosures, particularly in light of escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Read more: Jack Teixeira sentenced to 16 years for leaking classified documents
