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Ariane Tabatabai's promotion to the Pentagon sparks controversy over relations with the IRGC

Posted on by Vanessa
Ariane Tabatabai's promotion to the Pentagon sparks controversy over relations with the IRGC

Ariane Tabatabai, a Pentagon official with alleged ties to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), was promoted despite recent US intelligence leaks about a possible retaliatory strike by Israel against Iran.

Tabatabai, previously the deputy secretary of defense's chief of staff for special operations, was named deputy assistant secretary of defense for force education and training last month, Politico reported Thursday.

Her promotion comes amid an FBI-led investigation into leaked intelligence documents that reportedly detailed Israel's plans to combat Iran following its missile attacks in October. This has led to increased criticism, as some have accused Tabatabai of divided loyalties and recalled previous calls from members of Congress for her removal over previous communications concerns related to the IRGC.

A central figure in the leak investigation

Earlier this week, Sky News Arabia reported that she was a central figure in the leak investigation. However, Pentagon press secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder said, “To my knowledge, this official is not a subject of interest.” The FBI remains responsible for the investigation while the Pentagon is deferring its findings.

An American flag is hung on the Pentagon on September 11, 2023 in Arlington, Virginia, to mark the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2023. (Source: Alex Wong/Getty Images)

The timing of the leak, as Israel prepares for possible action against Iran, has heightened concerns. Israeli officials called the breach “extremely serious” but noted it was unlikely to change their strategic plans. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin reportedly spoke with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and emphasized the Pentagon's commitment to protecting intelligence shared between allies.

HANNAH SARISOHN and REUTERS contributed to this report.



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