Iran may be supporting anti-Israel protests in the U.S., while a suspended Biden administration official faces allegations of mishandling classified information, raising national security concerns.
Iran has reportedly been "cheering on" protesters in the United States, according to retired General Jack Keane. Amidst this revelation, Republican lawmakers have raised concerns about the mishandling of classified information by Robert Malley, a suspended special envoy for Iran in the Biden administration.
Malley came under fire after allegations emerged that he stored classified documents on his personal email account and cellphone. It is suspected that a "hostile cyber actor" gained access to these devices, potentially compromising sensitive information.
Top Republicans on the Senate Foreign Relations and House Foreign Affairs committees sent a letter to Secretary of State Antony Blinken, requesting confirmation of their findings. They specifically inquired if Malley had sent classified material to unauthorized individuals, including those lacking security clearances.
The lawmakers also expressed concern that the alleged cyber actor could be affiliated with the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRCG), posing a significant threat to national security.
Malley's suspension came amidst an investigation into his handling of classified documents. The suspension prompted him to step back from his role in the State Department.
Malley had been tasked with reviving the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, under which Tehran agreed to limit its nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief. However, in 2018, then-President Donald Trump withdrew the U.S. from the deal and reimposed sanctions.
Prior to his role in the Biden administration, Malley had advocated for engagement with organizations such as Hamas and Hezbollah, designated as terrorist groups by the U.S.
The allegations against Malley have raised concerns about the security of sensitive information within the State Department. The Republican lawmakers who signed the letter to Blinken have demanded immediate answers and accountability.
The State Department has confirmed that Malley remains on leave and that it has provided Congress with information on personnel inquiries related to Iran policy. However, it has not publicly commented on the specific allegations made against Malley.
The developments highlight the ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Iran, as well as the importance of safeguarding classified information within government agencies. The outcome of the investigation into Malley's alleged mishandling of documents is expected to shed light on the extent of the potential security breach and the implications for U.S. national security.
