Pakistani National Charged in Foiled Plot Against Trump and U.S. Officials
A Pakistani national with alleged links to Iran has been charged in connection with a plot to assassinate former President Donald Trump and other public officials, according to a federal complaint unsealed Tuesday in Brooklyn. Asif Merchant, 46, was arrested on July 12, one day before Trump’s rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. The complaint reveals that Merchant, who had traveled from Pakistan after spending time in Iran, sought to hire hitmen to execute the plan.
Merchant reportedly engaged a confidential FBI informant, believing the person to be a potential accomplice. The FBI subsequently foiled the plot, arresting Merchant before he could carry out the murders or leave the country. Merchant faces charges of murder for hire.
The Justice Department has emphasized its commitment to countering threats from Iran, following heightened concerns over potential retaliation for the 2020 killing of Iranian General Qasem Soleimani. Merchant allegedly sought around 25 individuals to stage a protest as a distraction and arranged to pay $5,000 as an advance on the planned assassinations, reports CNN.
Acting Assistant Director Christie Curtis praised the FBI’s efforts in preventing what could have been a devastating attack, while Attorney General Merrick Garland reaffirmed the U.S. government’s resolve to protect its officials from international threats.
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