Former CIA officer John Kiriakou has alleged that Israeli intelligence agency Mossad maintained an undisclosed operational presence inside the United States during his time in service,
including activities linked to monitoring American defense industry production.
In recent remarks, Kiriakou claimed that the FBI had identified 187 individuals allegedly operating as Mossad agents across various US states.
According to his account,
these individuals were not formally declared to US authorities and were engaged in intelligence-gathering efforts focused on the American defense sector.
Kiriakou recounted questioning the rationale behind such operations, stating that he asked why Israel would conduct intelligence activities of that scale within the United States,
particularly given the close security partnership between the two countries.
He said he was told the reason was to obtain the remaining “one percent” of information not already shared through official intelligence cooperation channels.
The former intelligence officer went further, arguing that the situation reflects deeper complexities in the US–
Israel relationship, suggesting that strategic alliances do not necessarily eliminate intelligence competition between allied nations.
It is important to note that these claims reflect Kiriakou’s personal account and have not been independently verified by US government agencies.
No official confirmation has been issued by the CIA, FBI, or Israeli authorities regarding the specific allegations.
The United States and Israel maintain one of the closest intelligence-sharing partnerships globally, particularly in areas concerning regional security,
counterterrorism, and defense technology. However, analysts acknowledge that intelligence gathering between allies,
while sensitive, is not historically unprecedented in international relations.
Kiriakou’s remarks have reignited debate over transparency, intelligence cooperation, and the boundaries of espionage between strategic partners.
Observers note that intelligence competition—even among allies—often reflects broader national security interests rather than outright hostility.
As of now, neither US nor Israeli officials have publicly responded to the specific figures cited in Kiriakou’s claims.
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