U.S. State Department Responds to Reports About Robert Malley; He is on Leave

Matthew Miller, spokesperson for the U.S. State Department, responded to reports about Robert Malley, stating to a Voice of America reporter: "He is on leave, and Abram Paley is currently fulfilling his duties in his place." Additionally, Axios journalist tweeted: "Robert Malley, the U.S. special envoy for Iran, stated on Thursday that his security clearances and access are under review, and he expects the investigations to conclude 'favorably and soon.'" Malley mentioned that he has not been provided with further information but anticipates that the investigations will proceed positively, and in the meantime, he will be on leave. Other sources have told CNN that Robert Malley has been suspended from his position due to what has been described as negligence in handling classified documents. Robert Malley, who was appointed as the U.S. special envoy for Iran in January 2021, played a 'significant role' in the 2015 Iran nuclear deal. Reuters reported that it is still unclear what impact Malley's departure will have on efforts to contain Iran's nuclear program following Trump's withdrawal from the agreement. Exclusive; U.S. State Department: Report on temporary agreement with Iran is 'incorrect and misleading.' The Islamic Republic also denied the possibility of a 'temporary agreement' between Iran and the U.S. Robert Malley: The sanctions on 'Abar Arvan' are to support Iranians' access to free and uncensored internet. In response to the trial of Elaheh Mohammadi and Niloufar Hamedi, Robert Malley stated: 'Journalism is not a crime.' The U.S. special envoy for Iran: The military option is on the table, but diplomacy is preferred.