CIA encourages Iranian dissidents to connect as nuclear discussions restart

CIA Invites Iranian Dissidents to Contact Agency Amid Protests

On Tuesday, the CIA shared a Persian-language video on its X account, encouraging Iranian dissidents to reach out safely to the agency, as anti-government demonstrations escalate in Iran.

This announcement coincided with CIA Director John Ratcliffe participating in a confidential “Gang of Eight” briefing on Iran alongside Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Capitol Hill, according to sources familiar with the situation.

In the video, conveyed in Farsi, the CIA expresses that it “hears you and wants to help you,” providing operational guidance for those thinking about establishing contact.

Activists are advised against using their work computers or personal phone lines and are encouraged to utilize disposable “burner” devices whenever possible. The CIA also recommends that individuals ensure their screens aren’t viewable by others.

The video details digital security measures aimed at safeguarding identities.

The agency advises the use of modern browsers like Google Chrome, Safari, or Firefox in private browsing or incognito mode, along with clearing device and browser histories after connecting.

Furthermore, the CIA emphasizes the significance of employing encryption and anonymity tools like Tor and VPNs. They warn that, without these protections, Iranian security services may monitor access to CIA websites.

Instructions for accessing a secure contact portal through Tor and other anti-filtering services are also provided.

At this time, while U.S. negotiators are set to meet with Iranian representatives in Geneva for further talks, the Iranian government indicated it would work based on previously established understandings, aiming for a “fair and impartial agreement.”

In a recent post on X, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi asserted that Iran will “not develop nuclear weapons under any circumstances,” though it insists on retaining rights to peaceful nuclear technology.

The Iranian government refers to these negotiations as a “historic opportunity” and claims a deal is possible if diplomacy is prioritized. They vow to defend their sovereignty “couragely” both at home and in discussions.

In related news, Iranian state media announced that the Revolutionary Guards recently conducted military drills along the country’s coast, which included missile launches, drone operations, and live-fire exercises.