Former CIA Official Charged with Leaking Secrets
A former US government employee, Asif William Rahman, has been charged with leaking classified documents about Israel’s potential plans to retaliate against Iran. Rahman, who worked for the CIA, was arrested in Cambodia by the FBI. He faces charges of willful retention and transmission of national defense information.
Details of the Case
The documents, prepared by the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, were leaked on October 17 from locations outside the US, including Cambodia. Rahman held a top-secret security clearance and had access to sensitive information. He was indicted in Virginia and will appear in Guam federal court.
Background of the Conflict
The leaked documents surfaced around the time Israel was considering a retaliatory strike against Iran. Earlier this year, Iran attacked Israel following an Israeli airstrike in Syria. The ongoing conflict has seen several high-profile attacks and retaliations between the two nations.
Doubts Revealed
CIA -: The CIA, or Central Intelligence Agency, is a part of the United States government that gathers information about other countries to help keep the US safe. They often work in secret to learn about potential threats.
Classified documents -: Classified documents are papers or files that contain important information that is kept secret to protect a country’s safety. Only certain people are allowed to see them.
Israel-Iran Tensions -: Israel and Iran are two countries in the Middle East that have had disagreements and conflicts over many years. Tensions mean that there is a lot of stress and potential for conflict between them.
National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency -: The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency is a part of the US government that uses maps and images from satellites to help understand and plan for national security. They provide important information to help protect the country.
Cambodia -: Cambodia is a country in Southeast Asia. It is known for its rich history and beautiful temples, like Angkor Wat.