The Cipher Brief

Deep in Cartel Country: CIA Deaths Expose Fragile U.S.-Mexico Security Ties

The deaths of two CIA officers highlight a growing U.S. intelligence footprint in cartel territory - and the political backlash it’s triggering in Mexico City.

Woman speaking at podium with Mexican seal, flag, and artwork in background.

Around two o’clock in the morning of April 19, an SUV veered off a twisting dirt road in a remote corner of the Sierra Madre, plunged into a ravine [...] More

The Open Source Report

Expert Insights

Cipher Brief Experts bring context to today’s global events

The Dangerous Trade of State Secrets

At just after 2 a.m. on January 3, explosions echoed across Caracas. Low-flying aircraft struck military installations. Venezuelan President Nicolás [...] More

Pakistan: Broker of Peace While Still at War

Just a few weeks ago, Pakistan, the host for fragile ceasefire talks aiming to end the war between the U.S. and Iran, was at war with Afghanistan in [...] More

Iranian president meets with Putin, discusses ways to boost cooperation in all sectors

What Iran Is Learning from Russia’s War and Why the U.S. Should Be Concerned

KREMLIN FILES/COLUMN: The war in Ukraine is often framed by optimistic academics, and some policymakers as a cautionary tale—an example of how [...] More

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SEE YOU IN COURT (AGAIN) -- File this under: things that probably didn’t need to become a federal case. But here we are. A grand jury in North Carolina has reportedly indicted former FBI director James B. Comey - the latest swing by the Justice Department at a man Donald Trump has been trying to sideline since their very public breakup. What’s the alleged crime? Seashells, sorta. Specifically, an Instagram post Comey shared last year showing shells arranged to read “86 47” is what’s got the Justice Department so worked up. For those who struggle with numbers: Trump is the 47th president, and “86” can mean anything from [...] More

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What does “success” look like in a conflict with Iran - and what comes next? In this in-depth conversation, General David Petraeus joins The Cipher Brief’s Suzanne Kelly to unpack the military and strategic realities shaping today’s most consequential conflicts. From the importance of reopening the Strait of Hormuz to the unresolved risks around Iran’s nuclear program, Petraeus explains what’s at stake not just for the U.S., but for the global economy. But the real story? Ukraine. Petraeus calls it the true test case for the future of war - where drones, autonomy, and rapid innovation are redefining the battlefield in real time.