The U.S. Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) has published new Farsi-language instructions on multiple social media platforms, urging Iranians to securely contact the agency. The move comes against the backdrop of heightened tensions in the Middle East, where the U.S. has significantly increased its military presence.
Recruitment Message
On Tuesday, the CIA shared guidance across X, Instagram, Facebook, Telegram, and YouTube, advising Iranians on how to protect themselves when reaching out. The instructions emphasized:
- Avoid using work computers or personal phones.
- Use a new, disposable device if possible.
- Employ a trusted Virtual Private Network (VPN) not headquartered in Russia, Iran, or China.
- Consider using the Tor Network to encrypt data and conceal IP addresses.
- Provide details such as location, name, job title, and access to information or skills of interest.
The agency also cautioned individuals to remain aware of their surroundings when attempting contact.
Political and Military Context
The recruitment effort coincides with a massive U.S. military buildup in the Middle East, which President Donald Trump has linked to ongoing nuclear negotiations with Iran.
In his State of the Union address, Trump reiterated that the U.S. would not allow Iran described as “the world’s biggest sponsor of terrorism” to acquire nuclear weapons. Iran has consistently denied pursuing a nuclear arsenal.
Upcoming Talks
U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are scheduled to meet Iranian officials led by Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi in Geneva on Thursday for a new round of negotiations. Trump has threatened military action if talks fail or if Tehran executes protesters arrested during January’s nationwide anti-government demonstrations.
Human Rights Concerns
Rights groups report that thousands of people were killed in Iran’s crackdown on the protests, the worst domestic unrest since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.
CIA’s Global Outreach
The Farsi-language post is part of a broader CIA campaign targeting potential sources in Iran, China, North Korea, and Russia. The agency declined to comment on the latest message, while Iran’s UN delegation has not responded to requests for comment.
