The Israeli Air Force is one of the users of the American-made stealth fighter F-35. Recent leaks from the U.S. government suggest that Israel may be preparing to launch retaliatory strikes against Iran, potentially involving air refueling tactics. This comes on the heels of a massive assault by Iran on Israel on October 1, where nearly 200 missiles were fired, prompting widespread speculation about how Israel will respond. However, details of Israel’s potential retaliation have recently surfaced online, prompting investigations by U.S. officials from agencies including the Pentagon and the FBI.

In a recent interview with CNN, House Speaker Johnson remarked, “We are actively investigating this matter, and I will be receiving a classified briefing within hours… We are closely monitoring the situation.”

According to reports by CNN and the Associated Press, documents circulating between October 15 and 16 were posted by a user named “Middle East Spectator” on Telegram and began spreading on the 18th. Initially claimed to be leaked by a U.S. intelligence official, the source was later attributed to a leak from the Department of Defense. These documents appear to have been compiled through satellite imagery analysis, labeled as “Top Secret,” and indicate that only the U.S. and its “Five Eyes” allies—Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the U.K.—have the right to share the information.

The documents suggest that Israel is preparing for potential strikes against Iran. One document, reportedly compiled by the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, outlines plans for the transportation of munitions. Another, from the NSA, details air-to-ground missile exercises by the Israeli Air Force, believed to be preparations for attacks on Iran. Additionally, one document hints at Israel possessing nuclear weapons, a fact the country has long refused to confirm publicly; however, it also notes that the U.S. has not observed any indications that Israel plans to use nuclear arms against Iran.

It remains unclear how these documents were leaked, whether through a hacking incident or intentional internal disclosure. A U.S. official stated that they are investigating who had access to these documents. The Telegram channel that disseminated the files claims to be based in Tehran and has previously shared memes and other materials supporting the so-called “Axis of Resistance,” which consists of Iranian-backed militant groups in the Middle East.

This leak occurs during an extremely sensitive time in U.S.-Israel relations, likely to irritate Israeli officials and heighten tensions. Mick Mulroy, a former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Middle East Affairs and retired CIA officer, commented, “This is a serious leak that could challenge future coordination between the U.S. and Israel.”

Last year, Massachusetts Air National Guard member Jack Teixeira leaked military secrets on Discord, straining relations between the U.S. and allies such as South Korea and Ukraine. Some of the documents in the current leak show similarities to the style of information Teixeira released.