The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has intensified its search for Monica Witt, a former United States Air Force officer who is wanted on allegations of espionage on behalf of Iran. Witt is accused of using her position as an Air Force officer to gather classified information before defecting to Iran in 2013. The FBI has reiterated its commitment to apprehending her, especially given the current critical period in Iran's history.
FBI's Renewed Appeal
Daniel Wierzbicki, the special agent in charge of the FBI Washington Field Office's Counterintelligence and Cyber Division, stated, "The FBI has not forgotten and believes that during this critical moment in Iran's history, there is someone who knows something about her whereabouts. The FBI wants to hear from you so you can help us apprehend Witt and bring her to justice." To encourage tips, the agency has announced a reward of up to $200,000 for information that leads to her arrest.
Background of the Case
According to the Justice Department, Witt joined the Air Force in 1997 and served until 2008. She later worked as a contractor for the Defense Department until 2010. Prosecutors allege that in 2012, Witt traveled to Iran to attend a conference that criticized "American moral standards" and promoted anti-U.S. propaganda. She returned to Iran the following year, where Iranian officials provided her with housing and computer equipment. Authorities claim that she subsequently began working on behalf of Tehran by sharing classified information and gathering intelligence on former U.S. intelligence colleagues.
Allegations of Espionage
In February 2019, prosecutors alleged that Witt shared information about a classified Defense Department program with the Iranian government and assisted Tehran's intelligence services in targeting her former colleagues in the U.S. government. Authorities said Witt worked with Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), the country's elite military force responsible for expanding Tehran's influence globally.
Physical Description and Aliases
The FBI describes Witt as a White woman with brown hair and brown eyes, standing 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighing approximately 120 pounds. She is also known by the names Fatemah Zahra and Narges Witt, according to the agency.
The case underscores ongoing tensions between the United States and Iran, as the FBI continues to pursue individuals accused of espionage and defection. The agency urges anyone with information about Witt's whereabouts to come forward.
