U.S. intelligence suggests that Iranian officials were taken by surprise by the Hamas attack on Israel. This information indicates that Iran may not have been directly involved in the October 7th assault. The analysis and data collection are still ongoing, and further information might emerge to provide more clarity. Key Iranian officials who would typically inform about such operations appeared to be unaware that the attacks were occurring. The specific identities of these Iranian officials and the nature of the collected intelligence remain undisclosed. This development is noteworthy, as it raises questions about Iran’s level of involvement in the attack.
Multiple American officials familiar with the matter have stated that the U.S. has intelligence suggesting that senior Iranian officials took by surprise by the Hamas-led terror attack on Israel. This preliminary information indicates that Tehran may not have directly involved in the launch of the deadly assault on October 7.
Although the analysis and data collection are ongoing, officials briefed on the intelligence have noted that key Iranian officials, who would typically informed about operations in the region. Also it seemed unaware that these attacks were occurring. The specific identities of these Iranian officials and the nature of the collected intelligence have not disclosed.
U.S. lawmakers received a classified briefing on the situation in Israel and potential Iranian involvement. And Senior U.S. intelligence official Morgan Muir also provided information to a smaller group. The New York Times initially reported the U.S. intelligence that indicated the surprise of senior Iranian officials regarding the Hamas attack. Hamas attack on Israel
Administration officials have consistently maintained that Iran has long supported Hamas with material, financial, and logistical backing. However, no evidence has emerged thus far to directly link Tehran to the attacks, which resulted in over 1,200 casualties and thousands of injuries among Israelis.
National security adviser Jake Sullivan emphasized that Iran’s complicity in the attack seen in the broad sense. And given its extensive support for Hamas over the years. We will continue to assess additional intelligence in the coming weeks and days to gain further clarity on the situation.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken set to travel to Israel for meetings with senior Israeli officials. And showing solidarity and support. The State Department has confirmed that the number of American citizens killed in Israel has risen to 22, with 17 citizens still unaccounted for. Some of these individuals may have taken hostage by Hamas.