Former U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning to Iran, stating that the country would face complete “obliteration” if it attempted to assassinate him. Speaking during the signing of an executive order aimed at increasing pressure on Tehran, Trump declared, “If they did that, they would be obliterated… there won’t be anything left.” This strong statement comes amid growing concerns about Iranian threats targeting Trump and other former U.S. officials.
Heightened Security After Threats and Past Incidents
Federal authorities have been monitoring Iranian threats against Trump for years, particularly after the U.S. ordered the 2020 strike that killed Qassem Soleimani, a top Iranian military commander. A recent security scare occurred before Trump’s July campaign rally in Pennsylvania, where he survived an assassination attempt, though officials clarified there was no evidence linking Iran to that incident.
Foiled Iranian Plot Before the 2024 Election
In November, the U.S. Department of Justice announced it had thwarted an Iranian plot to assassinate Trump ahead of the presidential election. Iranian national Farhad Shakeri, allegedly directed by Iranian officials, was accused of planning the attack. Shakeri, described as an Iranian government asset with a criminal background, remains at large in Iran. He reportedly received orders from Iran’s Revolutionary Guard to pause other activities and focus on surveilling Trump.
Iran Denies Allegations Amid Diplomatic Tensions
Iranian officials dismissed the U.S. allegations, claiming they were part of a scheme orchestrated by Israel-linked groups to strain U.S.-Iran relations. Despite Iran’s denial, U.S. authorities continue to take threats seriously, especially after Trump revoked security protection for key figures from his administration, including Mike Pompeo, Brian Hook, and John Bolton—all of whom had faced Iranian threats due to their hardline policies against Tehran.
The escalating tensions highlight the fragile nature of U.S.-Iran relations and the ongoing security risks faced by former American officials.
