Iran boosts budget by $2 billion for plots against US personnel

Iran has allocated an additional $2 billion to its operations targeting American personnel, according to a new intelligence assessment. The funding surge marks a sharp increase in resources dedicated to lethal plots against U.S. citizens overseas.

Director of National Intelligence Jay Clayton issued the warning in a memo dated Friday. He stated that these efforts have reached "advanced stages" in the Middle East and several other regions. The document was sent to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, with CIA Director John Ratcliffe also receiving a copy.

Clayon noted that the intelligence community is working to declassify sensitive data. This move aims to allow State Department staff to access critical information more easily. The memo does not list specific targets or identify which countries are currently under threat.

The report arrives as the Trump administration considers resuming military strikes. Security precautions have tightened at U.S. diplomatic and military sites in the region. Earlier this week, the State Department ordered non-essential embassy staff and their families to depart Saudi Arabia.

Several other embassies in the area have adopted "restricted operations" status. This designation allows them to reduce on-site personnel without issuing a formal departure order. A U.S. official said the department is constantly evaluating new information regarding the security environment.

Houthi forces backed by Iran have targeted Saudi oil infrastructure and airports in recent weeks. One strike on Riyadh's King Khalid Airport earlier this month killed a U.S. citizen and injured hundreds. The military has also quietly reduced its presence at posts in the Middle East due to continuing threats.

President Trump suggested further action could follow if Tehran does not reach a deal. Speaking at a rally in Florida on Friday, he referenced the military campaign launched in February. He said, "We may do another little Epic Fury, or they'll agree."