US Intelligence Warns of Advanced Iranian Plots Against American Officials

A declassified United States intelligence memo indicates that Iran is in the "advanced stages" of plotting to assassinate American officials in the Middle East and other countries. The memo, authored by Director of National Intelligence Jay Clayton and sent to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, suggests that the intelligence should inform ongoing efforts to reduce personnel at U.S. embassies.

"The lethal plotting efforts by the Iranians against US citizens have reached advanced stages in both the Middle East and certain other countries," Clayton wrote. Three U.S. officials, speaking anonymously due to the sensitivity of the matter, confirmed the memo's authenticity and its recipient.

The issuance of the memo coincided with the State Department's announcement of reduced staffing at U.S. embassies in Jordan, Lebanon, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. These diplomatic missions are now operating under "restricted operations" status, which curtails the size of their personnel footprints, though the embassies will remain open. This move follows a similar order for nonessential personnel and their families to leave Saudi Arabia.

U.S. officials have stated that these staffing drawdowns are linked to increased threats from Yemen's Houthi rebels and not directly to potential new strikes on Iran. The Houthis, supported by Iran, have recently engaged in renewed fighting, launching missile and drone attacks against Saudi Arabia. The State Department's public announcement specifically cited the Houthi threat without directly mentioning Iranian personnel threats.

The intelligence report and embassy drawdowns emerge amid reports and speculation that the United States and Israel may be planning new strikes against Iran following the U.S. midterm elections. The New York Times reported that U.S. and Israeli commanders have developed plans for a "short but intensive" operation targeting Iran's nuclear sites, energy infrastructure, and weapons systems. These reports also mention the potential use of the GBU-43/B Massive Ordnance Air Blast bomb, nicknamed the "Mother of All Bombs."

Speculation about potential strikes has coincided with a spike in oil prices. Brent crude rose significantly following reports of potential new attacks on Iran. The U.S. president had previously vowed not to initiate strikes before the midterm elections. The U.S. military buildup, including aircraft carriers and Marines, is expected to be in place by early November.

Iran has previously threatened retaliation for any strikes, with analysts suggesting potential attacks on major Saudi refineries. Iranian state television has reported threats from the Revolutionary Guard navy to strike U.S. military bases if the United States continues to escort commercial ships through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy transit route. The Iranian Foreign Minister has also warned that any escalation in the region risks civilian lives, regional stability, and the global economy.