Shifting Sands: US Intelligence Reconsiders Foreign Involvement in Havana Syndrome

Created: JANUARY 26, 2025

Several U.S. intelligence agencies have revised their stance on the enigmatic "Havana Syndrome," now suggesting foreign involvement might be a factor in the brain injuries reported by American diplomats and government personnel abroad. While the overall intelligence community assessment still deems it "very unlikely" that a foreign actor is responsible, two of the seven agencies now acknowledge the possibility of a foreign-developed weapon capable of causing such harm.

This shift comes as a significant development for individuals like Adam, a former government employee (whose identity Fox News has agreed to protect) considered "Patient Zero." First affected in Havana, Cuba, in December 2016, Adam endured multiple attacks, describing intense pressure in his head leading to vertigo, tinnitus, and cognitive impairment. He and other victims have persistently urged the government to identify the source of these attacks.

Adam expressed cautious optimism about the two agencies' revised assessment, pointing to Russia as the likely culprit behind the development of such a weapon. He highlighted an eight-year struggle for recognition and accountability, emphasizing the need for truth and consequences for those involved in any potential cover-up. He hopes the incoming administration will address this issue and provide answers to the American people.

Adam at Capitol

Adam, considered "Patient Zero," shared his perspective on the recent developments in the Havana Syndrome investigation. (Fox News Digital/Adam)

Adam was among six Havana Syndrome victims who participated in a White House Situation Room meeting on November 18, 2024, aimed at briefing the incoming administration on the issue, also known as Anomalous Health Incidents (AHIs). During the three-hour meeting, chaired by NSC Coordinator for Intelligence and Defense Policy Mahar Bitar, victims reportedly received an apology from NSC staff regarding their treatment by the government.

Following the updated intelligence assessment, the NSC released a statement underscoring the importance of continued research, investigation of credible incidents, and enhanced care and long-term clinical follow-up for those affected.

The NSC committed to briefing the incoming Trump administration on the comprehensive ongoing efforts that should be maintained.

Adam expressed his astonishment at what he perceives as a lack of readily available information regarding foreign powers' research and development of neuro-strike weapons, citing public reports on such programs, particularly in China and Russia.

Adam at Capitol

Adam and six other victims met with officials in the White House Situation Room to discuss Havana Syndrome and provide a roadmap for the incoming Trump administration. (Fox News Digital/Adam)

The Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) released the report and conducted a background briefing with reporters. The ODNI clarified that new information prompted two agencies to revise their assessments regarding the possibility of a foreign actor possessing a weapon or device capable of causing the reported symptoms. These agencies now estimate a roughly even chance of such a capability existing, but maintain low confidence in their judgment.

Adam with Pompeo

Adam expressed hope that the incoming administration would be more receptive to the concerns of Havana Syndrome victims. (Fox News Digital/Adam)

A separate interim report by the Republican-led House Intelligence Committee's CIA Subcommittee concluded that a foreign adversary is "increasingly likely" responsible for "some portion" of the incidents. The report criticized the intelligence community for withholding information and highlighted the detrimental effects of its inconsistent approach on personnel, policymaker trust, public understanding, and perceptions by foreign allies and adversaries.

Attorney Mark Zaid, representing some victims, noted that the new assessment suggests evidence is moving closer to acknowledging foreign involvement. Adam hopes the incoming Trump administration will continue investigating Havana Syndrome and seek answers for the affected individuals.

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