Monica Witt Accused of Supporting Iranian Intelligence Operations
The Federal Bureau of Investigation has announced a reward of $200,000 for information leading to former US Air Force officer Monica Witt, who is accused of defecting to Iran and assisting Iranian intelligence operations.
According to the FBI, Witt allegedly defected in 2013 and is still believed to be involved in activities supporting Iranian intelligence agencies. Officials say the case remains a major national security concern for the United States.
In a statement released Thursday, the FBI urged anyone with information about Witt’s whereabouts or activities to come forward. The agency said investigators continue to actively pursue leads connected to the former intelligence specialist.
Daniel Wierzbicki, a senior FBI counterintelligence official, said authorities believe someone may have critical information that could help locate her.
The announcement comes during a period of heightened tensions involving Iran and the United States, with intelligence and security agencies increasing scrutiny of foreign operations and espionage threats.
Former Counterintelligence Specialist Accused of Leaking Classified Information
Monica Witt previously served as a counterintelligence officer with the Air Force Office of Special Investigations. She reportedly worked on assignments connected to the Middle East between 2003 and 2008.
US officials allege that after leaving military service, Witt became involved with Iranian intelligence-linked individuals and later defected to Iran.
In 2019, American prosecutors accused her of exposing highly classified US intelligence operations after allegedly joining Iranian networks. Authorities claimed she revealed sensitive information related to intelligence collection programs and identified a US intelligence officer, potentially putting lives at risk.
According to the indictment, Witt allegedly conspired with Iranian contacts between January 2012 and May 2015. Prosecutors claimed she transferred documents and information connected to US national defense with the understanding that the material could benefit Iran and harm American interests.
Officials also alleged that Iranian authorities provided Witt with housing, computer equipment, and logistical support after her arrival in Iran.
The case quickly became one of the most high-profile defection and espionage investigations involving a former US military intelligence officer in recent years.
FBI Intensifies Search Amid Ongoing Security Concerns
The FBI says the investigation remains active and continues to focus on determining Witt’s current role and location. Officials believe she may still be assisting Iranian operations linked to intelligence and information gathering.
Authorities have not publicly confirmed whether Witt currently has legal representation in the United States. Her exact whereabouts also remain unknown.
Counterintelligence experts say cases involving former intelligence officers are treated as especially serious because of the sensitive nature of classified information they may possess.
The FBI’s renewed public appeal reflects growing concern about foreign intelligence operations targeting US security infrastructure and military personnel.
Analysts believe the timing of the announcement is significant due to escalating geopolitical tensions involving Iran, the Middle East, and Western intelligence agencies.
The reward announcement is part of broader efforts by American authorities to track individuals accused of espionage, unauthorized intelligence disclosures, and foreign collaboration involving national defense matters.
Officials continue urging the public and international partners to share any credible information that may assist in locating Monica Witt and advancing the investigation.
