Donald Trump has been informed by U.S. intelligence about specific threats from Iran aimed at assassinating him, according to a statement from his campaign. The Republican presidential candidate was briefed on these “real and specific threats,” which the campaign claims are part of an effort by Iran to destabilize the United States.
Details on whether these threats are new or previously reported were not provided. The Iranian government has not yet responded to requests for comment, though it has historically denied any allegations of interference in U.S. affairs. Trump campaign communications director Steven Cheung stated that intelligence officials have noted an increase in “continued and coordinated attacks” in recent months.
Law enforcement agencies are reportedly working diligently to ensure Trump’s safety and maintain the integrity of the upcoming election. The Office of the Director of National Intelligence in the U.S. has been approached for further comment.
This announcement follows an assassination attempt on July 13, during which Trump was wounded, and another individual was killed at a rally in Pennsylvania. The motive for that shooting remains under investigation, and U.S. media previously reported that intelligence suggested a potential Iranian plot against Trump, which Iranian officials dismissed as “malicious.”
On September 15, a Secret Service agent fired upon spotting a rifle aimed at Trump while he was golfing at Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach. Ryan Wesley Routh has since been charged with attempted assassination in connection with that incident, though there is no indication of Iranian involvement in either case.
Last month, the Trump campaign reported that some of its internal communications had been hacked, suggesting possible targeting by Iranian operatives.
