Leaked ‘top secret’ documents reveal US intel on Israel’s plans to strike Iran – Here’s what sources say

The United States is investigating the unauthorised release of classified documents that outline Israel’s military preparations for a potential strike on Iran. Three US officials confirmed the investigation to The Associated Press, while a fourth official said the documents appear to be legitimate.

The leaked documents, attributed to the US Geospatial-Intelligence Agency and the National Security Agency (NSA), assess Israel’s ongoing movement of military assets in preparation for a possible retaliatory strike following Iran’s ballistic missile attack on October 1. The documents were shared among the “Five Eyes” intelligence-sharing alliance, which includes the US, the UK, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia.

‘Top secret’ leak

First posted on Telegram and reported by CNN and Axios, the documents are marked as “top secret.” The US officials who spoke to the media did so anonymously, as they were not authorised to discuss the sensitive issue publicly.

The investigation is focused on determining how the documents were obtained, with officials considering whether it was an intentional leak from within the US intelligence community or the result of a hack. Additionally, investigators are working to establish if any other classified information was compromised and who had access to the documents before their release.

This leak emerges at a delicate time, as the US has been urging Israel to de-escalate its military operations in Gaza and Lebanon. Washington has encouraged Israel to capitalize on the recent elimination of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar by pushing for a ceasefire in Gaza. At the same time, the US has cautioned Israel against expanding its military activities in Lebanon, which could trigger a broader regional conflict. Despite these urgings, Israeli leaders have repeatedly asserted that they will not allow Iran’s missile attack to go unanswered.

Israel strikes Gaza

In Gaza, Israeli airstrikes continue to inflict severe damage. A recent attack on Beit Lahiya in northern Gaza killed at least 73 people, according to Gaza authorities. While the official death toll is expected to rise as rescue efforts continue, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have questioned the accuracy of the figures, labelling them as potentially “exaggerated.”

This unfolding conflict underscores the escalating tensions across the region, with global powers closely monitoring both Israel’s military actions and Iran’s response.