US suspects Russia aided Iran in drone attacks on CIA bases

U.S. intelligence analysts are examining the possibility that Russia provided assistance to Iran during recent drone attacks on CIA facilities in the Gulf. Four individuals familiar with the intelligence community's findings revealed this information, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the sensitive national security nature of the topic.

While U.S. officials have not yet reached definitive conclusions about Russia's potential involvement, they are considering the precision and effectiveness of the strikes, along with Russia's broader technical support for Iran, as indicators. Previous reports, acknowledged by U.S. officials, have indicated that Russia has supplied targeting and other support to Iran for strikes against U.S. targets in the Gulf region. However, the current investigation into Russian involvement in attacks specifically targeting CIA facilities has not been previously disclosed.

At least two CIA sites were reportedly hit in March: one at the U.S. embassy in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and another in eastern Iraq. Some sources suggest additional CIA sites may have been targeted, though details remain undisclosed. An internal memo from a Western intelligence agency, described by a regional official with access, concluded that Russia has likely played a role in targeting these facilities.

Analysts believe that the attack on the Saudi facility may have involved two Russian-enhanced versions of Iran's Shahed drones. These drones reportedly breached the embassy's exterior, with one detonating inside. No casualties were reported. While Russian support for Iran is a known factor due to their close ties, targeting sensitive CIA sites would signify an escalation by Moscow in disrupting U.S. operations, particularly as Washington seeks to conclude the war in Iran. Concerns about Russian targeting data for Iran intensified following recent ballistic missile strikes on a U.S. air base in Jordan, which killed two soldiers.