US intelligence fears Israel eavesdropping on officials during Iran talks

Recent U.S. intelligence reports indicate a significant escalation in Israeli espionage activities targeting senior American officials, particularly during sensitive negotiations with Iran. The reports, detailed by The New York Times, suggest that Israeli intelligence agencies have intensified efforts to eavesdrop on U.S. negotiators, raising alarms within Washington.

“

intelligence reports have raised concerns about Israeli spy agencies eavesdropping on American negotiators in the process of seeking a peace deal with Iran

While a degree of mutual intelligence gathering between the U.S. and Israel has long been an accepted reality, current U.S. officials believe Israel has crossed a line by aggressively seeking to understand Washington's stance in the Tehran talks. Specific reports highlight efforts to gather intelligence on key figures such as Steve Witkoff, a lead negotiator under President Donald Trump, and Elbridge A. Colby, a Pentagon policy official, along with his close aide Michael P. DiMino IV.

Compounding these concerns, a separate report from the U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency and other military intelligence offices has elevated the counterintelligence threat posed by Israel from 'high' to 'grave,' the highest possible level. This assessment details numerous specific attempts by Tel Aviv to spy on U.S. military personnel and government officials.

“

the level of counterintelligence threat from Israel has increased from 'high' to 'grave' (the highest level) in recent weeks

The revelations come at a particularly delicate time, as the U.S. and Israel are engaged in unprecedented military cooperation against Iran. Despite extensive sharing of operational information, U.S. officials are concerned that Israel continues to seek deeper insights into negotiation strategies and shifts in President Trump's positions. This alleged espionage risks complicating joint operational planning between the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) and Israel, adding tension to an already complex relationship shaped by differing objectives regarding Iran and its regional influence.

“

Tel Aviv has intensified its eavesdropping activities targeting many senior U.S. officials