Israel Cancelled Plans For Earlier Strike on Iran After Key Documents Leak – Reports

<p >Highly sensitive U.S. intelligence documents detailing Israeli preparations for an extensive strike inside Iran have been leaked, seriously disrupting planned operations. The National Geospatial Intelligence Agency documents began circulating online after being posted on Telegram by an account called “Middle East Spectator.” Dated October 15 to October 16, and marked ‘Top Secret,’ the documents highlighted that the Israeli Air Force had been observed by U.S. intelligence preparing at least 16 'Golden Horizon' and at least 40 'ROCKS' air launched ballistic missiles. These preparations began on October 8 at the latest at <a href=" target="_blank">Ramat David Air Base</a> and Ramon Air Base. A number of Israeli media outlets cited a range of sources confirming this. The Israeli Air Force subsequently carried out a large force employment exercise on October 15 simulating conditions very similar to those which would be required for an assault on Iran – with a significant focus on aerial refuelling and combat search and rescue operations. The large scale exercises involved at least three KC-707 tankers, one G550 Gulfstream airborne early warning and control system, which are vital to facilitating effective <a href=" target="_blank">long range fighter operations</a>.</p><p ><img src=" title="Israeli G550 Gulfstream AEW&C"></p><p >Another document from the National Security Agency has outlined Israeli Air Force exercises involving air to surface missiles, which were considered to be preparations for attacks on Iran. The U.S. is currently investigating the highly classified intelligence leak, which American officials referred to as “deeply concerning.” Commenting on the potential fallout from the leak, former deputy assistant secretary of defence for the Middle East and a retired CIA officer Mick Mulroy observed: “If it is true that Israeli tactical plans to respond to Iran’s attack on October 1 have been leaked, it is a serious breach…. The future coordination between the U.S. and Israel could be challenged as well. Trust is a key component in the relationship, and depending on how this was leaked that trust could be eroded.” Other officials highlighted the possibility that there would be further leaks of more sensitive information. With Israeli officials having pledged to launch a rapid and harsh attack on Iran, the recent leaks provide a face saving pretext for refraining from taking military action. Although the Iranian Air Force retains only very limited offensive capabilities, the Revolutionary Guard Corps’ ballistic missile arsenal and drone fleets are considered by far the most formidable in the region, and have<a href=" target="_blank"> demonstrated the ability</a> to bypass Israel’s multi layered air defence network. Iranian surface to air missile systems have also demonstrated the capability to <a href=" target="_blank">effectively neutralise</a> some of the most advanced American built combat aircraft in the region.</p>