Targeting Americans (2019) | 60 Minutes Archive

CBS News
March 8, 2026
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2 min read

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A 2019 report detailed unexplained brain trauma affecting U.S. officials abroad, possibly from a foreign weapon.

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In 2019, American officials serving in Cuba and China reported experiencing unexplained brain trauma, as first detailed by Scott Pelley on 60 Minutes. Evidence gathered at the time suggested these incidents may have resulted from a foreign government employing a weapon that left no discernible trace. These events prompted investigations into the nature and origin of the afflictions, often referred to as "Havana Syndrome." The incidents raised significant concerns regarding the safety of U.S. diplomatic and intelligence personnel abroad. Ongoing efforts continue to understand the long-term health impacts and identify the responsible parties.

What's Being Done

Investigations into unexplained brain trauma affecting U.S. officials abroad are ongoing.

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