Last week, President Trump disclosed classified intelligence information with Russian officials meeting at the White House. Today, it’s been revealed that this information was provided by Israel, The New York Times reports.
U.S. and diplomatic officials confirmed Israel as the source of the information, according to CNN, even though the White House has yet to comment on the matter.
Israel is considered one of the U.S.’s most important allies. President Trump’s decision to share information obtained by Israel with Russia could potentially damage U.S.-Israeli relations, the Times reported.
In a statement given to the Times, Ron Dermer, the Israeli ambassador to the U.S., shared confidence in U.S. and Israel relations.
“Israel has full confidence in our intelligence-sharing relationship with the United States and looks forward to deepening that relationship in the years ahead under President Trump,” Dermer told the Times.
President Trump has faced criticism over his decision to share the classified information with Russian officials, CNN reported. Trump defended himself on Twitter, saying he had “the absolute right” to share the information with Russia, “facts pertaining.”
As President I wanted to share with Russia (at an openly scheduled W.H. meeting) which I have the absolute right to do, facts pertaining….
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 16, 2017
It is unclear how this latest revelation will impact relations with both Israel and Russia.