Why Iran may be 'plotting to assassinate' Donald Trump

Representtaive Image, ANI

• Iran is actively pursuing plans to assassinate Trump, according to senior US officials with knowledge of the intelligence, a CNN report said.
• The Biden administration has gathered evidence from various sources, including human sources, indicating that Tehran is linked to potential acts of physical violence that could result in Trump's death.
• The officials said that the intelligence has intensified in recent months, increasing their confidence in Tehran's intentions.
• They also warned of the possibility of additional attempts on Trump's life in the coming weeks, particularly in the lead-up to the November election.

• Intelligence source: The US received information from a "human source" about Tehran's plan targeting Trump, leading to boosted security measures.
• Unrelated attack: The recent rally shooting by Thomas Matthew Crooks, which left Trump wounded and a rally attendee dead, is not connected to the Iranian plot, according to officials.
• Historical context: The National Security Council has tracked Iranian threats against Trump administration officials for years. Iran's animosity towards Trump dates back to his decision to order the killing of Qasem Soleimani.
• Former officials like secretary of state Mike Pompeo and national security adviser John Bolton receive 24/7 protection due to credible threats from Iran.

• During his first term, Trump took a hardline stance against Iran, withdrawing the US from the Iran nuclear deal (JCPOA) and imposing strict economic sanctions on Iran.
• This severely damaged Iran's economy and was seen as a major affront by the Iranian government.
• Additionally, Trump ordered the killing of Soleimani, a top Iranian general, in 2020. Soleimani was a powerful figure in Iran and his death was a major blow, with Iran's UN ambassador calling it "tantamount to opening a war."
• This assassination is likely a key motive behind any Iranian plot to target Trump.

• Adrienne Watson, NSC spokesperson: "We consider this a national and homeland security matter of the highest priority."
• Anthony Guglielmi, Top Secret Service Spokesman: "The Secret Service takes threats seriously and responds accordingly."
• US National Security Council: "Iranian threats against former Trump administration officials have been a consistent concern."

• A joint intelligence bulletin by Homeland Security and the FBI warns of potential follow-on or retaliatory acts of violence, noting that rallies and campaign events are attractive targets.
• Both Trump and Biden now have a visibly stronger security presence, with Secret Service agents creating a protective barrier between them and the public at events.
• The Secret Service has cautioned the Trump campaign on multiple occasions about the dangers associated with hosting rallies in open-air settings, according to individuals familiar with the situation. These events present higher security risks compared to those held in more controlled environments, where the agency can better manage access and ensure the safety of attendees.
• As per the CNN report, the sources indicated that the Secret Service's warnings have been broad in scope, rather than focusing on specific threats or incidents. The agency's primary concern is the inherent difficulty in securing outdoor venues, which are more vulnerable to potential security breaches and other hazards.
• Legal Path for Justice: Iran's mission to the United Nations called the assassination plot accusations "unsubstantiated and malicious," saying that Iran has chosen the legal path to hold Trump accountable for Soleimani's killing.
• Foreign ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani said: "Iran “strongly rejects any involvement in the recent armed attack on Trump or claims about Iran’s intention for such an action.” Kanaani added, "The Islamic Republic of Iran is determined to pursue legal action against Trump for his direct role in the crime of assassinating Martyr General Qassem Soleimani.”

• President Joe Biden has ordered an independent review of the Secret Service's handling of the Butler shooting, examining how the gunman was able to open fire from an exposed rooftop 150 meters away.
• Enhanced security measures are now visible around both Trump and Biden, aiming to prevent further attempts on their lives amidst a tense 2024 election season.
• The increased protection and ongoing threats add another layer of complexity to the already contentious and vitriolic 2024 election campaign.
• For Iran, targeting a former US president would be an extremely high-risk move, likely resulting in severe military and economic consequences. However, the symbolic value of such an action and the desire for revenge might outweigh rational considerations in the minds of some Iranian leaders.