Iran strikes on CIA facilities raise questions over possible Russian role

WASHINGTON – U.S. intelligence officials are investigating whether Russia assisted Iran in attacks targeting CIA facilities in the Gulf region, including possible targeting information or advanced drone technology, according to people familiar with the matter.

The officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of national security issues, said U.S. intelligence agencies have not reached any firm conclusions about possible Russian involvement. However, analysts are examining the effectiveness and apparent precision of the attacks, as well as Moscow’s broader military and technical cooperation with Tehran.

Reuters and other media outlets have previously reported that Russia has provided Iran with targeting support and other assistance in attacks against U.S. interests in the Gulf region. The investigation into whether such support was involved in strikes against CIA sites has not previously been publicly disclosed.

At least two CIA-linked facilities were hit in March, according to reports. One was the CIA station located inside the U.S. embassy compound in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, while another site was reported in eastern Iraq. Some sources said additional CIA facilities may have been targeted but did not provide further details.

A Western intelligence agency assessment cited by a regional official suggested that Russia may have played a role in helping Iran identify regional CIA facilities as targets.

Two Western officials in the Gulf, who were briefed on intelligence reports, said analysts believe the attack in Saudi Arabia may have involved two modified versions of Iran’s Shahed drones enhanced with Russian assistance.

According to the officials, one drone struck a vulnerable section of the embassy’s exterior, creating an opening, while a second drone entered through the breach and detonated. No deaths or injuries were reported.

The United States has not publicly confirmed the extent of any Russian involvement, and neither Moscow nor Tehran has commented on the allegations.

GAROWE ONLINE