US Special Envoy on Iran, Rob Malley, has been placed on leave without pay after his security clearance was suspended earlier this year amid an investigation into his handling of classified material, according to multiple sources. The suspension of Malley’s clearance came as a result of a State Department diplomatic security investigation into the possible mishandling of classified information. Malley confirmed that his security clearance is under review and expressed his expectation that the investigation will be resolved favorably and soon.
During the State Department investigation, Malley remained on the job but was not allowed to access classified information. The investigation identified an issue with Malley’s security clearance, according to sources familiar with the matter. State Department spokesperson Matt Miller confirmed that Malley is on leave, with Abram Paley serving as the acting Special Envoy for Iran in his absence.
Malley had previously played a key role in US efforts to revive the Iran nuclear deal and in seeking to secure the release of Americans wrongfully detained in Iran. However, his clearance suspension has sidelined him from the crucial effort to put constraints on Iran’s nuclear program, with Brett McGurk taking over that role.
The State Department investigation into Malley’s handling of classified information was not widely communicated within the department or the Biden administration, and no official announcements were made about replacing him. Some officials were told that Malley was dealing with personal matters, which is why he had taken a back seat on the Iran portfolio.
Despite his clearance suspension, Malley has maintained a prominent role in working to secure the release of Americans wrongfully detained in Iran. He has been in regular contact with the families of those held and has engaged with the Iranian ambassador to the United Nations.
Malley’s appointment as special envoy for Iran came shortly after President Joe Biden took office in 2021. He had been involved in efforts to revive the Iran nuclear deal since the beginning of the Biden administration, but these efforts did not produce any breakthroughs. State Department officials have shifted their focus away from reviving the deal, particularly as protests in Iran have intensified.
Malley has a history of working on the Iran portfolio, having served during the Clinton and Obama administrations. He was part of the diplomatic negotiating team that helped craft the Iran nuclear deal under President Barack Obama. Malley has been targeted by Iran hawks who view him as sympathetic to Iran. He is also a longtime friend of Secretary of State Antony Blinken, dating back to their days as classmates in Paris.
What is the reason behind the temporary suspension without pay of US Special Envoy on Iran, Rob Malley, and the suspension of his security clearance?
No further details provided.
US Special Envoy on Iran, Rob Malley, has been temporarily suspended without pay following the suspension of his security clearance earlier this year. The suspension came as a result of a State Department investigation into the potential mishandling of classified information by Malley. He has acknowledged the ongoing review of his security clearance and expressed hope for a prompt and positive resolution.
During the investigation, Malley continued to serve in his role but was restricted from accessing classified information. Sources familiar with the matter have revealed that an issue with Malley’s security clearance was identified during the investigation. State Department spokesperson Matt Miller has confirmed that Malley is currently on leave, though no further details regarding the suspension have been provided.
It is concerning to see the US Special Envoy on Iran, Rob Malley, being placed on leave without pay amid a security clearance investigation. This emphasizes the importance of ensuring national security at all levels, but we must also remember the principles of fairness and due process.