Iran Sends Coded Signal To Activate Sleeper Cells Abroad; U.S. Intercepts
Key Takeaways
- U.S. intercepted encrypted communications believed to originate in Iran that may activate sleeper cells abroad
- Encrypted transmission was sent shortly after Ali Khamenei's February 28 death
- U.S. issued a federal alert to law enforcement about the intercepted transmission
Encrypted transmission and alert
U.S. intelligence agencies intercepted an encrypted transmission shortly after reports that Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had been killed on Feb. 28.
“Iran may be activating sleeper cells outside the country, alert says The encrypted transmission was intercepted by the U”
U.S. officials and ABC News said the signal may have been an "operational trigger" intended to activate sleeper assets or covert operatives abroad, prompting a federal alert to law-enforcement agencies.
Coded international transmission report
Preliminary signals analysis and reporting described the transmission as an internationally-rebroadcast, coded message that appeared destined for "clandestine recipients".
Outlets said it resembled communications used to instruct covert operatives or to activate prepositioned sleeper cells without using the internet, and authorities flagged the sudden appearance of a new international-style relay station reportedly transmitting from outside Iran.
Security monitoring warnings
Because the exact wording of the transmission has not been publicly confirmed, U.S. and allied authorities issued warnings to increase monitoring and vigilance.
“Iran sent out a possible “operational trigger” to activate “sleeper assets” abroad after the war with America and Israel began, according to an encrypted message intercepted by the US”
The alert urged "heightened situational awareness," and police nationwide were reportedly told to step up monitoring of suspicious radio traffic amid concerns.
Sources cautioned there was not yet solid proof of follow-on attacks.
Intercept reporting summary
The reporting underscores the seriousness with which U.S. officials treated the interception and also highlights remaining gaps.
Multiple outlets referenced ABC News for the initial reporting.
They described the signal as likely of Iranian origin.
Investigators have yet to confirm who transmitted the message, the precise instructions it contained, or whether any sleeper cells were actually activated.
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