Former US President and current presidential candidate Donald Trump warned on Wednesday that Iran should be targeted if it is involved in assassination attempts against him. His remarks came in response to intelligence reports from US agencies, indicating threats from Tehran.
“As you know, there have been two assassination attempts on my life that we are aware of, and they may or may not involve—but likely do involve—Iran,” Trump stated during a campaign speech in North Carolina. “If I were president, I would notify the country making threats—in this case, Iran—that if you do anything to harm this person, we will obliterate your biggest cities and the country itself.”
Trump emphasized the need for the US government to send a strong message to Iran, asserting that a forceful response is necessary if there are plans to harm American leaders. “The best way to do this is through the office of the president, letting them know that if they attack any former presidents or presidential candidates, their country will be shattered, as we say.”
These comments from Trump follow warnings from US intelligence services about increased threats from Iran against the former president. Trump has faced two assassination attempts in recent months, according to reports.
In a related development, federal authorities disclosed a separate incident involving Iranian hackers. A joint statement from the FBI, the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, and CISA revealed that Iranian hackers, between late June and early July, sent emails to individuals connected to President Biden’s campaign. These emails included stolen, non-public material from Trump’s previous campaign. However, there is no indication that Biden’s team responded to these emails.
Despite his threats of retaliation, Trump struck a more diplomatic tone on Thursday. Speaking to reporters in New York, he suggested that the US should pursue a deal with Iran. “Of course, I would make a deal,” Trump responded when asked if he would negotiate with Iran if elected. “We have to make a deal because the consequences are unimaginable. We have to make a deal,” he reiterated.
