The United States has launched an investigation into the leak of highly classified documents detailing Israel’s preparations for a potential strike on Iran. Sources familiar with the situation confirmed the authenticity of the documents, which appeared online on October 15 and 16.

The leaked documents, marked as "top secret," were intended only for the US and its “Five Eyes” intelligence-sharing partners: Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom. These documents were shared through the Telegram channel “Middle East Spectator” and included sensitive information regarding Israel’s military movements.

The leaked intelligence reportedly detailed Israel's plans for a military strike against Iran, including air force exercises and missile movements. One document from the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency highlighted Israel’s preparations, while another, attributed to the National Security Agency, discussed air-to-surface missile exercises.

The US government responded to the leak with an immediate investigation, involving the FBI, Pentagon, and intelligence agencies. Although the FBI declined to comment, a US official described the breach as “deeply concerning.”

The leak comes at a sensitive time in US-Israeli relations, with tensions already heightened after a missile attack from Iran on October 1. One of the leaked documents mentioned Israel's nuclear capabilities, although there was no indication that nuclear weapons were being considered for the conflict.

Mick Mulroy, a former deputy assistant secretary of defense, expressed concern about the potential impact of the leak on US-Israeli relations, warning that the erosion of trust could affect future coordination between the two nations.

The National Security Council referred questions to the Office of the Director of National Intelligence and the Pentagon, both of which declined to comment.

It is still unclear whether the documents were hacked or deliberately leaked. This breach follows other notable intelligence leaks, such as the 2023 incident where a 21-year-old Air National Guardsman leaked sensitive information on Discord, straining US relations with several allies.

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