A CIA official has been charged with leaking highly classified documents concerning Israel’s potential retaliation against Iran following a missile attack.
Asif W. Rahman, a former CIA employee stationed abroad with top-secret security clearance, was arrested by the FBI in Cambodia on Tuesday in connection with the leaks, according to the New York Times.
The arrest follows the circulation of classified documents online last month, revealing Israel’s potential response to Iran’s missile barrage on October 1. The leaked materials, which were prepared by the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, included satellite imagery related to the planned Israeli strike and details on the missile types involved. These top-secret documents were intended solely for individuals with the appropriate clearance within the United States and the “Five Eyes” intelligence alliance—Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.
The Middle East Spectator had published the documents, claiming to have received them from an anonymous source. The publication stated it had no connection to the original leaker and could not confirm the authenticity of the materials.
The FBI disclosed last month that it was investigating the leak’s source, collaborating with the Department of Defense and other intelligence agencies. The indictment, which does not provide specific details about the leak, notes that the documents were likely released around October 17. Investigators believe the leak occurred in Cambodia, based on court filings.
Rahman had access to sensitive compartmentalized information as part of his CIA clearance, which is common for those handling classified materials. According to data from 2017, over one million individuals in the U.S. hold top-secret clearances, with an additional 1.6 million having access to confidential or secret information.
Security clearances are subject to ongoing reviews, known as “continuous vetting,” to identify any new threats posed by cleared individuals. This process, revamped by the Department of Defense two years ago, involves regular background checks to ensure employees maintain the required security standards.
Rahman faces two charges of willfully retaining and transmitting national defense information. After his initial court appearance, he will be transferred to stand trial in the Eastern District of Virginia.
