In recent weeks, US authorities received intelligence from a human source revealing a plot by Iran to attempt to assassinate former President Donald Trump. This development prompted the Secret Service to enhance security measures around the former president. However, there is no indication that the individual who attempted to kill Trump on Saturday was connected to this plot.
The revelation of the intelligence threat from a hostile foreign intelligence agency has raised concerns about security lapses at the rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, where the assassination attempt took place. The Secret Service has since bolstered protective resources and capabilities for Trump's security detail.
It remains unclear whether the specifics of the Iran threat were shared with the Trump campaign. The Secret Service has cautioned against holding outdoor rallies due to heightened security risks, and security measures have been tightened for former Trump administration officials.
The FBI is currently leading the investigation into the shooting incident, while the Department of Homeland Security and Iran's Permanent Mission to the United Nations have been approached for comments.
Iran's longstanding vow for revenge following the killing of Qasem Soleimani in 2020 has been a cause for ongoing security concerns. In August 2022, a member of the IRGC was charged with attempting to orchestrate the assassination of John Bolton, Trump's former national security adviser.
Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo was also identified as a target in the Iranian assassination plot. Law enforcement officials have been monitoring the persistent threat of Iran potentially targeting former Trump officials, with recent intelligence indicating an escalation in the threat level.
US officials have noted a surge in online messaging from Iranian sources mentioning Trump, further heightening security concerns. The investigation into the assassination plot continues as authorities remain vigilant in safeguarding the security of former government officials and public figures.
