Fact Check: Employees placed on administrative leave were recalled to duty as the conflict between Iran and Israel escalated Friday.

Fact Check: "Employees placed on administrative leave were recalled to duty as the conflict between Iran and Israel escalated Friday."

What We Know

The claim that employees placed on administrative leave were recalled to duty amid escalating conflict between Iran and Israel is supported by recent reports. On June 13, 2025, the U.S. Agency for Global Media announced that employees of the Voice of America (VOA) who had been placed on paid administrative leave were instructed to return to their roles. This decision was made in response to the ongoing conflict and the need for the agency to provide counter-narratives to misinformation regarding the situation in the region (Politico).

The context of the conflict includes Iranian missile strikes targeting Israel, which have intensified the situation (Washington Post). This escalation has led to a broader discussion about the roles of federal employees and their ability to engage in discussions about the conflict without violating the Hatch Act, which regulates political activity by federal employees (OSC).

Analysis

The evidence supporting the claim comes from credible news sources that report on the recall of employees from administrative leave. The U.S. Agency for Global Media's directive to bring back VOA employees indicates a direct response to the conflict, aligning with the timeline of escalating tensions in the region. The reliability of this source is high, as it comes from a government agency responsible for international broadcasting.

However, the broader context of the conflict and the implications for employee conduct are also relevant. The OSC's advisory opinion clarifies that federal employees can express their views on the conflict as long as they do not engage in political activities while on duty (OSC). This suggests that while employees can discuss the situation, their roles in reporting and providing information are critical during times of conflict.

The reliability of the sources used in this analysis is generally strong, as they include government reports and established news organizations. However, it is essential to consider potential biases in reporting, especially regarding sensitive geopolitical issues.

Conclusion

Verdict: Needs Research
While there is evidence that employees placed on administrative leave were recalled to duty, the claim's context requires further investigation. The relationship between the recall and the specific escalation of conflict between Iran and Israel is not fully established in the available sources. Additional information regarding the timing and reasons for the recall, as well as the implications for employee conduct during such conflicts, would provide a clearer understanding of the situation.

Fact Check: Employees placed on administrative leave were recalled to duty as the conflict between Iran and Israel escalated Friday.