The U.S. Director of National Intelligence Warns of Iranian Influence in American Protests
The office of the U.S. Director of National Intelligence issued a public statement revealing Iran’s efforts to incite pro-Palestinian, anti-Israel protests in the United States. The statement highlighted Iran’s involvement in funding and encouraging discord in American society.
Photo: Kyle Grillot / Reuters, Majid Saeedi / Getty Images
The U.S. intelligence community highlighted how Iranian actors were exploiting ongoing protests related to the Gaza conflict to sow discord. Avril Haines, U.S. Director of National Intelligence, mentioned Iranian government actors posing as activists online to incite protests and provide financial support to protesters.
Noting Iran’s increasing aggressiveness in foreign influence efforts, Haines urged Americans to remain vigilant online. She warned that individuals might unknowingly interact with or receive support from foreign governments, emphasizing the need for caution when engaging with unknown entities.