The leak and subsequent report by The New York Times is considered “one of the most dangerous leaks in Israel’s history,” according to an Israeli official. The report revealed that Israel contemplated attacking Iran’s nuclear program with US support after Iran’s missile attack on October 1, though officials were hesitant to proceed without US approval. Critics, including former defense minister Avigdor Lieberman, accused Prime Minister Netanyahu of leaking the story to deflect criticism for his inaction against Iran.