New York Times Details CIA Role in Strike
The The New York Times has reported that the Central Intelligence Agency identified a gathering of Iran’s top leadership prior to a major strike, after which Israel carried out the attack.
intelligence Led to Timing Shift in Operation
According to the newspaper, shortly before the operation against Iran, the CIA had accurately pinpointed what was described as the most critical target Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Sources familiar with the operation said the agency had been monitoring Khamenei’s movements and residences for several months, with intelligence assessments becoming increasingly precise over time.
The report stated that US intelligence received information indicating that a significant meeting of senior Iranian officials was scheduled to take place on Saturday morning at a compound in central Tehran. Crucially, the intelligence suggested that the Supreme Leader would also be present at the gathering.
US-Israel Coordination Highlighted in Report
Following this development, the United States and Israel reportedly decided to adjust the timing of their planned strike to capitalize on the opportunity. The newspaper said the revised schedule enabled both countries to secure what it described as an important early success in the operation.
The intelligence tip ultimately led to the strike that resulted in the deaths of senior Iranian officials, including Ayatollah Khamenei, according to the report. The New York Times noted that the speed and precision of the operation reflected close coordination and intelligence sharing between Washington and Tel Aviv in the lead-up to the attack.
Iranian Leadership Gathering Tracked Before Attack
Despite what were described as clear indications of a possible conflict, Iran’s leadership was reported to have failed to implement adequate protective measures ahead of the meeting. The newspaper added that Israel executed the operation based on combined US and Israeli intelligence, following months of planning.
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Initial plans reportedly called for a nighttime strike. However, after receiving confirmation of the high-level meeting at the government compound in Tehran, the decision was made to launch the attack on Saturday morning instead.
The report underscores the role of intelligence collaboration in shaping the course and timing of the operation, which has significantly escalated tensions in the region.
