Ariane Tabatabai, a Pentagon official with alleged links to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), has been promoted despite a recent leak of US intelligence concerning Israel’s potential retaliatory strike against Iran.
Tabatabai, previously chief of staff to the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Special Operations, was elevated last month to Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Force Education and Training, as reported by Politico on Thursday.
Her promotion comes amid an FBI-led investigation into the leaked intelligence documents, which reportedly detailed Israel’s plans to counter-attack Iran following its October missile attacks.
A central figure in the leak investigation
This has led to heightened criticism, as some have accused Tabatabai of divided loyalties, recalling prior calls from members of Congress for her removal over past IRGC-related communication concerns.
Earlier this week, Sky News Arabia reported her as a central figure in the leak investigation. However, Pentagon Press Secretary Maj.-Gen. Pat Ryder stated that “to my knowledge, this official is not a subject of interest.” The FBI remains in charge of the probe, with the Pentagon deferring to its findings.
The timing of the leak, as Israel geared up for potential action against Iran, intensified concerns. Israeli officials have described the breach as “extremely serious” but noted it was unlikely to alter their strategic plans.
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has reportedly spoken with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, emphasizing the Pentagon’s commitment to safeguarding intelligence shared between the allies.