DCIA Ratcliffe, ramblin’ man (Reuters)

INTEL LEAK ON IRAN ATTACK PLAN: The New York Times reported that Israel planned to strike Iranian nuclear sites as soon as next month, but was waved off by President Trump in recent weeks in favor of negotiating a deal with Tehran to limit its nuclear program. Israel, in coordination with American officials, considered several strike options against Iran in May, including an ambitious plan combining airstrikes and commando raids, but then shifted focus to a large-scale bombing campaign before calling the whole thing off. Israel was furious. Channel 12 quoted a senior Israeli security official as saying, “The heart of the secret with respect to Iran was leaked — the methods of operation, the timing, the coordination mechanisms, and the element of surprise. This does real harm to Israeli interests regarding Iran.”  The Kan public broadcaster reported that Israel believes the U.S. leaked the information in order to pressure Iran in the negotiations.

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