Pentagon Raises Alarm Over Israel Spying on US During Iran Negotiations
The Pentagon has elevated its counterintelligence threat assessment of Israel to the highest level, citing growing concerns that Israeli agencies may have spied on American officials during sensitive peace talks with Iran. Recent reports from the Defense Intelligence Agency and other military intelligence offices classify Israel's espionage activities as 'critical,' a significant escalation from the previous 'high' rating.
According to the New York Times, the assessment highlights Israel's capability to conduct both human espionage and technical surveillance, with officials warning that the threat has intensified in recent weeks. A seven-page document from the DIA includes a chart detailing specific incidents that raised alarm, including attempts to monitor senior American officials involved in negotiations with Iran.
Alleged Surveillance of US Negotiators
American intelligence reports suggest that Israeli agencies have attempted to eavesdrop on top US officials, including Steve Witkoff, President Trump's chief negotiator; Elbridge A. Colby, the Pentagon's top policy official; and Michael P. DiMino IV, one of Colby's deputies. US sources indicate that the aim was to gain insight into Trump's evolving strategy on Iran and the broader Middle East conflict.
Israel Denies Espionage Allegations
The Israeli Embassy in Washington, D.C., strongly rejected the claims. In a statement, a spokesperson said: 'Israel does not gather intelligence on American entities, let alone US government officials. Israel intelligence collection efforts are aimed at its enemies, not its allies. Any claims to the contrary are either misinformed or politically motivated.' The Pentagon declined to comment, while the White House dismissed the reports as 'false.'
Sensitive Timing Amid War With Iran
The heightened alert comes at a delicate moment. Since the war against Iran began on February 28, US and Israeli forces have worked more closely than ever, with Israeli officers embedded at US Central Command. The two allies have shared vast amounts of tactical and operational data. Yet tensions have grown as President Trump pursues a diplomatic ceasefire deal with Iran, while Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pushes for renewed bombing raids. In a recent phone call, Trump reportedly referred to Netanyahu as 'crazy,' underscoring the strain between the two leaders. Since early April, Trump has sought a peace deal, but Israel remains skeptical that Iran will honor any agreement.
Allies Spying on Allies
While it is not unusual for allies to monitor each other, US officials argue that Israel's recent activities go beyond what is typically tolerated. The raised threat level reflects concerns that Israel is targeting American decision-making at the highest levels, particularly regarding the future of the war in Iran and operations in Lebanon.
Netanyahu and Trump Clash Over Iran War
Legit.ng earlier reported that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly pushed for a coordinated call urging Iranians to take to the streets against their government last week. According to two US officials and an Israeli source, Netanyahu believed the timing was right after Israeli strikes killed senior Iranian figures, including Ali Larijani, Iran's national security chief, and Gholamreza Soleimani, head of the Basij militia.
