US authorities had increased protection for Donald Trump several weeks ago after discovering an Iranian plot to assassinate him, according to national security officials. This threat is not linked to the recent attempt on Trump’s life in Pennsylvania by Thomas Matthew Crooks, but it raises questions about security measures. Despite increased security, including counter-assault agents, drones, and robotic dogs, Crooks managed to get close to Trump.
Iranian threats against Trump and former officials like Mike Pompeo are rooted in the 2020 assassination of Iranian General Qassem Soleimani. The Iranian mission at the UN dismissed the claims as “unsubstantiated and malicious,” while the US remains vigilant, continuously adapting security measures.
The incident with Crooks, who was able to climb a building and aim at Trump from 130 meters away, has prompted an independent review ordered by President Joe Biden and investigations by Congress and the Secret Service. Despite the intensified security, Crooks managed to bypass local and state police snipers.
This situation underscores the high-stakes tension between the US and Iran, especially following Soleimani’s killing. The US Secret Service continues to receive and act on new potential threats, underscoring the ongoing risks faced by Trump and other former officials involved in the decision to target Soleimani.
As the investigation continues, authorities aim to ensure such breaches do not recur, maintaining rigorous security protocols to protect current and former US officials.