The Biden administration has issued a stern warning to Iran: any threat against former President Trump could escalate to military conflict. During Trump’s presidency, he along with admin was involved in the assassination of Iranian General Gassem Soleimani which led to an increase of threats from the Iranian government. Now, there is speculation Iran is behind Trump’s assassination attempts, interfering in the 2024 election, and has been fueling anti-sematic protests across college campuses.
Increasing Threat from Iran
U.S. officials are increasingly concerned about Iran’s threats against former President Donald Trump and others involved in the 2020 drone strike that killed Iranian General Qassem Soleimani. These threats include propaganda and calls for revenge, which the Iranian government has disseminated through various channels. The Biden administration’s warning emphasizes the gravity of these threats, particularly given Iran’s history of retaliation.
The Trump campaign has sought extraordinary protective measures, highlighting the increasing danger faced by Trump and others. U.S. intelligence has briefed Trump’s team on heightened assassination attempts from Iran, which have included two known attempts this summer. The extent of Iran’s efforts is more pervasive than previously reported, employing techniques such as hacking, digital surveillance, and attempts to track U.S. officials overseas.
Biden warned Iran that killing Trump would be an act of war: report https://t.co/yteFC2MkTB pic.twitter.com/3PbNbLrJFs
— New York Post (@nypost) October 14, 2024
Security Challenges
The U.S. government faces challenges in protecting former officials at risk. Congress has allocated significant funds, but some individuals, particularly former National Security Council officials, remain without government protection. The Secret Service and other agencies are navigating stretched resources, leading some at-risk individuals to invest in private security measures. This security shortfall underscores difficulties in adapting to evolving threats from foreign states.
“Iran has made it very clear that they are determined to seek retaliation against former officials in connection with the Soleimani strike,” said Matt Olsen, the Justice Department’s assistant attorney general for national security.
The U.S.-Iran relations stand at a significant threshold. While some officials, like John Bolton, have received government protection, many remain vulnerable. The Biden administration’s stern warning to Iran reflects the potential consequences for relations if an assassination attempt succeeds. Such actions are reminiscent of the fatwa against author Salman Rushdie, highlighting the potential for long-term political repercussions.
🚨Islamic Regime🚨 Trump has been warned that there are threats of an assassination against him by the Islamic regime.
“The president of Iran is in our country this week. We have large security forces guarding him, but yet they’re threatening our former president.” pic.twitter.com/mW8MrWJ9E0
— Stella Escobedo (@StellaEscoTV) September 25, 2024
Historical Context of Retaliation
Following the assassination of Soleimani, Iran previously retaliated with missile strikes on U.S. bases in Iraq, injuring American troops, and led to the downing of a Ukrainian airliner. These historical acts of retaliation signify the seriousness of Iran’s threats. The Biden administration’s firm stance aims to deter similar future actions while maintaining diplomatic channels open.
“The U.S. would regard it as an act of war,” said Rep. Jim Himes (D-Conn.), the ranking member of the House Intelligence Committee.
As tensions escalate, the security landscape for former U.S. officials shifts. Iran’s response remains under watchful eyes globally, as strategic warnings are exchanged between the nations involved. The situation remains a pivotal moment in international relations, demanding vigilance and measured responses to curtail potential conflicts.
