CIA Official Arrested for Leaking Classified Documents

Rahman Arrested for Espionage: Alleged Leak of U.S. Intel on Israel’s Retaliatory Plans

The New York Times has reported Asif W. Rahman, a CIA official with top-secret security clearance, was arrested on November 12, 2024, in Cambodia by the FBI. He faces charges under the Espionage Act for allegedly leaking highly classified U.S. intelligence documents detailing Israel’s potential plans to retaliate against Iran following a missile attack.

The leaked documents, attributed to the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA), included satellite imagery and assessments of Israel’s military preparations, such as the movement of munitions and Air Force exercises involving air-to-surface missiles. These materials were disseminated online in October 2024 by a pro-Iran Telegram channel named “Middle East Spectator.”

Rahman, who had access to sensitive compartmented information, was indicted in a federal court in Virginia on two counts of willful transmission of national defense information. Following his arrest, he was transported to a federal court in Guam for initial proceedings before being transferred to Virginia for trial. These are felony charges under the Espionage Act, which could result in significant prison sentences.

Impact on U.S.-Israel Relations and Intelligence Security Concerns

It is estimated that more than a million Americans potentially have access to top-secret materials. An additional 1.6 million have access to information that is considered to be confidential or secret. About two years ago, the Defense Department overhauled the way clearances are reviewed in a process called “continuous vetting.” The process is supposed to ensure that any potential breaches of confidentiality or misuse of classified information are caught in a timely manner.

Israeli Defense officials warned that the leak could potentially negatively affect US-Israeli relationships. Retired Brigadier General Amir Avivi stated:

“I think it’s crucial that Israel knows that when they give information or the transformation, it’s not leaked, and there must be strong trust [that intel is going] to be treated the way it should be treated. It’s a very serious event.”

US officials were quick to comment on the arrest as well. Retired General Jack Keane (Chairman of the Institute for the Study of War) said that it was “outrageous” that a trusted Agency employee with such a high clearance was behind the leaks. While Keane noted the event was disturbing, he also went on to say that the information revealed did not highlight key aspects of Israel’s October 26 operation.

According to court documents, the leak occurred on or around October 17th and originated in Cambodia.

This incident has raised concerns about the security of classified information and the potential impact on U.S.-Israel relations. It underscores the critical importance of safeguarding sensitive intelligence to maintain trust between allied nations. The FBI and Department of Defense are conducting ongoing investigations to understand the full impact and scope of this leak.

This is a developing story. Check back later with SOFREP for more details.