1 day after Axios report: DNI memo confirms advanced Iranian attack plots

American officials in the Middle East face a heightened threat of lethal attacks, according to an intelligence memorandum delivered to Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Friday. The assessment confirms that Iranian efforts to target US personnel have intensified rapidly.

The document, dated October 23, was sent by Director of National Intelligence Jay Clayton. It states that plotting activities have reached advanced stages in the Middle East and several other countries. Clayton wrote that intelligence agencies gathered this data through multiple channels. A copy of the memo was also provided to CIA Director John Ratcliffe.

Clayton noted that the current intelligence on threats to government personnel is relevant to a wider group than those currently cleared to see it. He stated that the underlying information had already been shared with senior members of Rubio's team who hold appropriate clearances. Clayton offered an additional briefing and promised to work to downgrade the classification of the intelligence as much as possible. This would allow Rubio to share details with more State Department staff who may be at risk.

The memo was marked unclassified and did not name specific targets, attack methods, or countries outside the Middle East. The warning arrives as Washington scales back its diplomatic presence in the region. The State Department cited fears of Iranian retaliation and potential renewed US military operations against Tehran.

Earlier this week, Washington ordered nonessential government employees and family members to leave Saudi Arabia following an escalation in attacks by the Iranian-backed Houthis. Axios reported that further staff reductions were ordered at embassies in the United Arab Emirates, Lebanon, Qatar, and Jordan. CNN reported on Friday that the US was speeding up the departure of diplomats from several regional posts, some of whom had only recently returned after earlier evacuations.

President Donald Trump kept open the possibility of further military action on Friday. He said the United States could carry out another operation similar to Operation Epic Fury if Tehran does not reach an agreement. Trump stated, "We may do another little Epic Fury. Or they'll agree." Israel had urged Washington to launch new strikes on Iran sooner, though those efforts had not succeeded so far.

The situation reflects a dual approach by Washington, which is weighing additional military options while continuing diplomatic efforts to secure a deal with Iran. The intelligence assessment provides the basis for these simultaneous security and diplomatic measures.