President Biden’s special envoy for Iran has been placed on unpaid leave Thursday because of an investigation into his handling of classified documents, according to a report.
A US official told CNN that Robert Malley’s security clearance was suspended amid a State Department diplomatic security probe into the possible mishandling of classified material.
Malley confirmed that he was placed on leave and said he expected the issue to be resolved in a statement to the network.
“I have been informed that my security clearance is under review. I have not been provided any further information, but I expect the investigation to be resolved favorably and soon. In the meantime, I am on leave,” he said.
Malley was appointed by Biden, 80, to the position of special envoy for Iran on Jan. 28, 2021.
He was previously president and CEO of the International Crisis Group and worked in several capacities at the White House under former President Barack Obama.
Malley also served on the National Security Council and was a special assistant to former President Bill Clinton.
Despite the investigation into Malley, he remained on the job until Thursday without the authority to access classified information, CNN said.
State Department spokesman Matt Miller confirmed Thursday that Malley has been placed on leave, without explaining why or indicating how long it might last.
“Rob Malley is on leave and Abram Paley is serving as acting Special Envoy for Iran and leading the Department’s work in this area,” Miller said in a statement.
Malley has proven to be a controversial figure in the Biden administration over his willingness to engage with controversial Middle Eastern figures, such as members of the Palestinian militant group Hamas, according to Politico.
He was also deeply involved in the Obama administration’s construction of the 2015 Iran nuclear deal and has led efforts to revive the deal scrapped by former President Donald Trump, Reuters reports.
Biden is currently under investigation by special counsel Robert Hur over his alleged mishandling of classified material.
Trump was indicted by special counsel Jack Smith earlier this month and charged with 37 felony counts related to his alleged mishandling and concealment of sensitive material after his presidency.
Both Biden and Trump have denied any wrongdoing.
