The United States has issued a warning that Iran has significantly escalated its efforts to target American diplomats and officials overseas, with potential lethal plots now considered to be in ‘advanced stages,’ according to a US intelligence memo sent to Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
The memo, dated October 23 and obtained by Axios, highlights that Iran’s activities are not limited to the Middle East, although it does not specify which countries outside the region may be at risk. The document was distributed to senior State Department officials and reflects growing concern over the safety of US personnel amid heightened regional tensions.
Director of National Intelligence Jay Clayton has advised that as much of the underlying sensitive intelligence as possible should be downgraded to allow for wider dissemination among American personnel who may be at risk, sources familiar with the memo said. Clayton emphasized that the intelligence about Iranian assassination plots needs to reach more US personnel than currently authorized to receive it.
The memo does not name specific targets or provide details on the nature of the plots, but officials say the intelligence is a key factor behind the State Department’s recent decision to reduce staff at several US embassies across the Middle East. The drawdown comes amid mounting fears of a broader regional conflict following months of escalating violence involving Iran and its proxies.
The warning follows a period of heightened instability in the region, with Iran having retaliated against US and allied interests after high-profile strikes earlier this year. US military bases and diplomatic facilities have faced repeated threats, and officials have cited concerns that Iran may attempt to carry out assassinations or attacks against American representatives abroad.
According to Axios, the intelligence community has already shared the underlying information with senior State Department officials, but the push to downgrade and distribute the intelligence more widely reflects the seriousness of the threat. No details have been released regarding the specific methods or timing of the alleged plots.
US officials have not commented publicly on the memo, but the State Department’s recent moves to reduce embassy personnel and increase security measures suggest the warning is being taken seriously. The situation remains fluid, with US agencies monitoring for potential Iranian actions against American interests both within and outside the Middle East.
It remains unclear which American officials or locations may be targeted, and the US government has not disclosed any specific protective measures beyond the embassy drawdowns. Further updates are expected as more information becomes available and as intelligence is shared with at-risk personnel.
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