Iran Threat: DNI Warns State Dept of Advanced Attack Plans

Director of National Intelligence Jay Clayton informed Secretary of State Marco Rubio on October 23 that Iranian efforts to kill American personnel have intensified.

The intelligence memorandum, which was sent to Clayton with a copy to CIA Director John Ratcliffe, states that lethal plotting efforts against US citizens have reached advanced stages in the Middle East and certain other countries.

Clayton wrote that multiple intelligence channels show a substantial increase in Iran's push to target American officials and citizens. The memo was marked unclassified and did not specify the names of targets, the methods of attack, or the specific non-Middle Eastern countries involved.

Clayton noted that the intelligence regarding attacks on government personnel is relevant to a wider group than those currently cleared to see it. He confirmed that the underlying data had already been shared with senior members of Rubio's team who held the appropriate clearances. The DNI also offered to provide an additional briefing to the secretary.

Clayton pledged to make every effort to downgrade the classification of the intelligence. This action would allow Rubio to share the details with a larger number of State Department staff who might be at risk. A US official confirmed on Friday that Rubio received the warning.

The warning arrives as the State Department reduces its diplomatic presence in the region. Washington ordered nonessential government employees and family members to leave Saudi Arabia following an escalation in Houthi attacks. Additional staff reductions were ordered at embassies in the United Arab Emirates, Lebanon, Qatar, and Jordan.

President Donald Trump maintained the option for further military action on Friday. He stated that the United States could conduct another operation similar to Operation Epic Fury if Tehran does not reach an agreement, adding, "We may do another little Epic Fury. Or they'll agree."