The US intelligence community remains divided over the origins of the mysterious health incidents known as “Havana Syndrome,” which have affected American diplomats and their families stationed around the world.
While the majority of agencies maintain that it is “very unlikely” a foreign power is behind the symptoms, two intelligence bodies have shifted their stance, citing new findings from international energy research programs. These agencies suggest there is an “even chance” that foreign actors have developed radiofrequency-based technology capable of causing biological effects consistent with reported symptoms such as dizziness and sensory disturbances. However, neither agency explicitly links this hypothetical weapon to any confirmed incidents of Havana Syndrome.
Despite continued investigations, the overall consensus from five of the seven agencies is that there is no consistent evidence of a directed energy attack targeting US personnel. The intelligence community also stressed that while they do not question the legitimacy of the affected individuals’ experiences, the reported symptoms lack a clear and uniform medical profile.
Since its first public report in Havana, Cuba in 2016, cases have surfaced in locations as far-ranging as Washington, China, and beyond, fuelling speculation of covert attacks by foreign adversaries. The latest report underscores that while some agencies remain open to the possibility of experimental weaponry, concrete links to any international actor remain unproven.
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