US Intelligence Warns of Advanced Iranian Assassination Plots Abroad

US intelligence has warned that Iran has significantly intensified efforts to target American diplomats and senior officials in the Middle East and globally, with assassination plots reaching advanced stages, according to a memo sent to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

US officials state that this intelligence is a key factor behind the State Department's decision to reduce staff numbers at several embassies across the Middle East amid growing concerns over a wider regional conflict. Officials are also concerned that Houthi rebels in Yemen could expand attacks beyond Saudi Arabia to target other countries in the region. Adding to security tensions is the possibility that the US and Israel might resume military operations against Iran.

At a rally in Florida, US President Donald Trump addressed the situation, stating that a small military operation could be conducted or that Iran might agree to a deal. Trump noted that if they are smart, they will make a deal, though expressing doubt.

In a one-page unclassified memo, Director of National Intelligence Jay Clayton warned Rubio that intelligence regarding Iranian assassination plots needs to be shared with a broader circle of US personnel. While the memo does not specify targets or locations, it emphasizes that the underlying intelligence has already been shared with senior State Department officials, with a recommendation to lower classification levels for wider dissemination.

Earlier in the week, the State Department ordered the departure of family members and non-essential personnel from the US Embassy in Riyadh and consulates in Jeddah and Dhahran. On Friday, staff reductions were also ordered at embassies in the United Arab Emirates, Lebanon, Qatar, and Jordan due to Houthi threats and Iranian terror plots.