The United States has launched an investigation into leaked documents allegedly revealing Israel's plans to strike Iran, with indications of British involvement in the operation.
US House Speaker Mike Johnson confirmed the probe, describing the leak as "very concerning".
The classified files, which began circulating on Telegram last week, detail Israel's military preparations, including missile movements and training exercises for aircraft.
The documents also suggest that the UK is playing a key role in Israel's plans through the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance. The revelation comes amidst heightened tensions in the region, with Israel intensifying its offensive in Gaza and Lebanon.
The leaked documents, reportedly prepared by the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, describe US interpretations of Israeli Air Force and Navy planning based on satellite imagery from mid-October.
One document, titled "Israel: Air Force Continues Preparations for Strike on Iran and Conducts a Second Large-Force Employment Exercise", details activities including ballistic and air-to-surface missile handling.
The US has launched an investigation into the leakREUTERSAnother document, "Israel: Defense Forces Continue Key Munitions Preparations and Covert UAV Activity Almost Certainly for a Strike on Iran", focuses on drone operations.
The files also bear the initials TK, standing for Talent Keyhole, which relates to satellite-generated intelligence.
A senior UK intelligence source stated: "The UK has a leading role in providing intelligence support for the whole of the Five Eyes community into the Middle East."
The documents suggest that Israel possesses nuclear weapons, though this has never been publicly confirmed by the state.
US House Speaker Mike Johnson confirmed the probe, describing the leak as "very concerning"
REUTERS
However, they note that the US has not seen indications of Israel planning to use nuclear weapons against Iran.
Confirming an investigation into the leak had been initiated, Johnson said: "There's some serious allegations being made there.
"The investigation's underway, and I'll get a briefing on that in a couple of hours."
Officials have privately acknowledged the documents' authenticity, according to The New York Times.
However, they suggest the leaked information likely represents only a portion of the intelligence the US has on its close ally's planning.
The leak has raised concerns about the potential impact on US-Israel relations and regional stability.
Mick Mulroy, former deputy assistant secretary of defence for the Middle East, warned that "the future coordination between the US and Israel could be challenged" if the leak is confirmed.
He emphasised that trust is crucial to the relationship.
The Pentagon has stated it is looking into the leak reports.
