Former CIA Agent John Kiriakou Launches Sharp Criticism Against Israel and AIPAC

John Kiriakou, a former CIA agent, issued a rare and harsh critique of Israel and the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) on August 19, 2026. He accused Jerusalem of attempting to silence critics in the United States and claimed that Israel manipulated former President Donald Trump into escalating the current conflict. Kiriakou warned that this approach has alienated both the American public and the U.S. military.

Kiriakou focused much of his criticism on the impact of the ongoing Gaza war on U.S. military personnel, particularly sailors serving under difficult conditions on aircraft carriers in the Middle East. He described the situation as a "trap" set by Israel for Trump, resulting in poor conditions and severe mental strain on American troops. He cautioned that Trump will not remain president indefinitely and that attempts to intimidate or silence Americans who oppose these policies will ultimately fail.

The former CIA operative's remarks come amid heightened tensions surrounding U.S.-Israel relations and the influence of pro-Israel lobbying groups. His comments underscore growing concerns about the costs of the conflict on American forces and the broader political ramifications within the United States.