Foreign Intelligence Outreach and the Principle of Non-Intervention
The World Embassy Desk (WED) has taken note of the message published by the Central Intelligence Agency via X at 4:18 PM · February 24, 2026, in which instructions in Farsi were provided on how individuals may establish secure contact with this foreign intelligence service.
The WED observes that it is difficult to discern any legitimate purpose behind such a public outreach other than the potential encouragement of internal unrest or the facilitation of activities that may undermine the stability of a sovereign state. The active solicitation of contact from individuals within the territory of another state, particularly in that state’s own language and through widely accessible public communication platforms, raises serious concerns regarding compliance with fundamental principles of international law.
The principle of sovereign equality of states and the prohibition of intervention in the internal affairs of other states are enshrined in Article 2 of the Charter of the United Nations and constitute cornerstones of the international legal order. States are under an obligation to refrain from actions aimed at influencing or destabilizing the political, social, or security structures of other nations.
Furthermore, the sensitivity of the aforementioned message must be assessed in light of reports dated February 24, 2026, concerning an individual allegedly attempting to bring into Iran, under the cover of a diplomatic passport, a Starlink internet device and an unexplained number of satellite telephones, devices which are reportedly restricted or prohibited under domestic law. These developments underscore the heightened sensitivity surrounding external communications infrastructure and foreign intelligence outreach in the region.
While international law recognizes the complex and at times ambiguous landscape surrounding information and intelligence activities, any conduct that appears directed at exacerbating internal tensions, encouraging covert cooperation against state authorities, or circumventing domestic legal frameworks risks contravening the spirit, if not the letter, of the non-intervention principle.
The WED therefore calls upon all states to exercise restraint and to strictly adhere to their obligations under international law. Respect for sovereignty, non-interference, and the peaceful conduct of international relations remain indispensable for maintaining regional stability and global peace.
The WED reiterates that durable international security cannot be achieved through covert influence or external destabilization, but only through dialogue, mutual respect, and strict adherence to the Charter of the United Nations.