US investigating possible Russian role in Iranian strikes on CIA facilities in Gulf - report

Intelligence officials are examining whether Moscow provided targeting data or advanced drone technology for attacks on CIA sites in the Gulf, according to Reuters

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In this photo released on Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2021 by the Iranian army, drones are displayed prior to a drill, in an undisclosed location in Iran. The Iranian military began a wide-ranging, two-day aerial rill in the country's north, state media reported, featuring combat and surveillance unmanned aircraft, as well as naval drones dispatched from vessels in Iran's southern waters.
In this photo released on Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2021 by the Iranian army, drones are displayed prior to a drill, in an undisclosed location in Iran. The Iranian military began a wide-ranging, two-day aerial rill in the country's north, state media reported, featuring combat and surveillance unmanned aircraft, as well as naval drones dispatched from vessels in Iran's southern waters.(Iranian Army via AP)

US intelligence agencies are investigating whether Russia played a role in recent Iranian drone attacks on CIA facilities in the Gulf by providing targeting intelligence or advanced drone technology, Reuters reported on Tuesday, citing four people familiar with the matter.

According to the report, intelligence analysts have not reached any firm conclusions, but are examining the precision and effectiveness of the strikes alongside Russia's longstanding military and technical support for Iran.

Reuters reported that at least two CIA facilities were struck in March, including the CIA station housed within the US Embassy in Riyadh and another site in eastern Iraq. No casualties were reported.

Russia-Iran cooperation deepens: Moscow says it won't halt trade with Iran despite threats
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The report also cited Western officials who said analysts believe the attack in Saudi Arabia may have involved Russian-enhanced versions of Iran's Shahed drones. Reuters added that some intelligence assessments suggest Russia may have assisted Iran with targeting or navigation capabilities, although the claims have not been independently confirmed.

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