US warns of Iranian plots targeting Americans at advanced stages

US intelligence, via a memo from Director of National Intelligence Jay Clayton to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, states Iran has "substantially increased efforts to target US personnel" overseas, with lethal plots reaching "advanced stages" in the Middle East and other countries, prompting Washington to place staff on high alert.

Why it matters. The alert heightens US force protection and diplomatic posture in the Middle East amid already escalating tensions with Iran-backed groups and reported preparations for a new US-Israel military campaign against Iran.