In a surprising move, the United States secretly provided a warning to Iran regarding an imminent terrorist threat by ISIS within its borders, days before a deadly attack occurred near the burial site of Qasem Soleimani, a high-ranking Iranian military commander. The private warning, based on intelligence obtained by the US, was conveyed to Iran under the "duty to warn" policy, which mandates the US government to inform foreign governments, even those considered adversaries, about potential threats.

The warning, first revealed by The Wall Street Journal, marks a significant gesture considering the absence of formal diplomatic relations between the US and Iran. Furthermore, it comes at a time when Iran is suspected to be involved in a series of recent attacks by its proxy militias against US personnel in the Middle East.

The US official stated, "Prior to ISIS' terrorist attack on January 3, 2024, in Kerman, Iran, the US government provided Iran with a private warning that there was a terrorist threat within Iranian borders. We adhere to a longstanding 'duty to warn' policy, aimed at preventing loss of innocent lives in terror attacks."

Regrettably, the Iranian government was unable to prevent the ISIS attack, which turned out to be the deadliest in Iran since the country's 1979 revolution. The blasts near the burial site resulted in the loss of at least 84 lives, with 284 individuals sustaining injuries. A day after the attack, ISIS claimed responsibility.

Given the gravity of the situation, CNN has reached out to the Iranian mission to the UN for a comment on this development and the subsequent attack.

The "duty to warn" policy is governed by the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. According to this policy, any intelligence entity that acquires credible and specific information of an imminent threat of intentional killing, serious bodily injury, or kidnapping directed towards individuals or groups has a responsibility to notify the intended victim or those responsible for their protection. This obligation extends to both US and non-US persons.

The US government's willingness to share critical intelligence with Iran, despite their adversarial relationship, highlights the commitment to safeguarding innocent lives, transcending political differences. While the warning did not prevent the attack on Iranian soil, it serves as a reminder of the complex and secretive nature of international security efforts.