US Intel Warns of Advanced Iranian Plots

US intelligence agencies report that Iranian efforts to kill American officials and citizens have reached advanced stages. The warning was detailed in a memorandum dated October 23. The document was sent to Secretary of State Marco Rubio by Director of National Intelligence Jay Clayton. A copy went to CIA Director John Ratcliffe.

Clayton wrote that multiple intelligence channels show Iran has substantially intensified its push to target US personnel. He stated that lethal plotting efforts against US citizens have reached advanced stages. This activity is occurring in the Middle East and certain other countries. The memo itself was marked unclassified. It did not name specific targets or describe attack methods.

Clayton noted that the information regarding plots against American government personnel is relevant to a wider group than those currently cleared. He confirmed that the underlying data had already been shared with senior members of Rubio's team who held proper clearances. The director offered Rubio an additional briefing on the details. He also promised to work to downgrade the classification of as much intelligence as possible.

Downgrading the classification would allow Rubio to share the information with more State Department staff. Those employees could be at risk if the plots succeed. The State Department is currently scaling back its diplomatic presence in several Middle Eastern countries. This move cites fears of Iranian retaliation and the possibility of renewed US military operations against Tehran.

Earlier this week, Washington ordered nonessential government employees and family members to leave Saudi Arabia. The order followed an escalation in attacks by the Iranian-backed Houthis. Reports indicate that further staff reductions were ordered at embassies in the United Arab Emirates, Lebanon, Qatar, and Jordan. CNN reported on Friday that the United States was speeding up the departure of diplomats and their families from these regional posts.

Some of the departing personnel had only recently returned to their posts. They had been evacuated earlier during the Iran war. The network also reported that Israel had urged Washington to launch new strikes on Iran sooner. Those efforts had not succeeded so far. The timing of the intelligence warning coincides with these diplomatic shifts and military discussions.

President Donald Trump kept open the possibility of further military action on Friday. He said the United States could carry out another operation similar to Operation Epic Fury. This would happen if Tehran does not reach an agreement. "We may do another little Epic Fury. Or they'll agree," Trump said.

The intelligence community's assessment comes as Washington weighs additional military options. The administration continues diplomatic efforts to secure a deal with Iran. The memo signals a heightened level of concern for the safety of American diplomatic personnel. These individuals are working in regions where Iranian influence and retaliation risks are rising.