Report: Security Heightened for Trump Amid Iran Assassination Plot
US authorities have recently acquired intelligence indicating a plot by Iran to assassinate former President Donald Trump. This led to the United States Secret Service intensifying security measures around Trump, as multiple informed sources disclosed to CNN.
Security Concerns at Butler Rally
Although there’s no evidence connecting Thomas Matthew Crooks, who attempted to assassinate Trump at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, to the Iranian plot, the presence of a foreign intelligence threat and heightened security for Trump highlights concerns about the security breach. Crooks, a 20-year-old, managed to access a rooftop and fire shots, injuring the former president.
Official Statements and Actions
It remains unclear if Trump’s campaign was briefed on the specific Iranian threat. The campaign responded, “We do not comment on President Trump’s security detail. All questions should be directed to The United States Secret Service.” The Secret Service recently enhanced protective measures for Trump, as confirmed by spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi.
Despite general warnings from Secret Service officials against outdoor rallies due to higher risks, the Trump campaign continued such events. At one point, the campaign ceased holding spontaneous unscreened events for security reasons.
Ongoing Investigations
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is leading the investigation into the shooting incident at the rally. Neither the FBI nor the Department of Homeland Security has provided further comments. Additionally, Iran’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations has yet to respond to CNN’s request for comment.
Historical Context and Previous Threats
The assassination threats from Iran are partly in retaliation for the US military’s killing of Qasem Soleimani, the commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), in January 2020. Senior Trump administration officials, such as John Bolton and Mike Pompeo, have also been targets of Iranian plots. In August 2022, the United States Department of Justice charged an IRGC member with planning to assassinate Bolton.
Intensified Online Activity
Recent intelligence indicated a surge in threats against Trump, with increased online messaging from Iranian accounts and state-backed media mentioning the former president. This uptick has raised significant security concerns among US officials, leading to enhanced protective measures.
The situation underscores the persistent and evolving threats against Trump and former administration officials, prompting a robust response from US security agencies.
