Iran has a history of alleged assassination plots on US soil
Iran has long been known as the world’s largest state sponsor of terror, and recent events have only reinforced this reputation. Even before a U.S. airstrike obliterated three Iranian nuclear facilities over the weekend, the radical Islamist government of Iran was already leveling death threats and allegedly plotting assassinations on American soil.
President Donald Trump announced the successful bombing of the Iranian nuclear facilities during a nationally broadcast statement from the White House. He emphasized that Iran, often referred to as the bully of the Middle East, must now make peace or face even greater and more devastating attacks in the future.
The airstrikes came amidst an escalating conflict between Iran and Israel, with Israel at war with the Iran-backed terror group Hamas. The Justice Department has previously thwarted plots to kill President Trump and other American figures, as well as convicted Iranian assets accused of planning assassinations on U.S. soil.
One prominent Iranian American human rights activist, Masih Alinejad, was targeted in an assassination plot by Iranian agents. Additionally, another suspected Iranian agent, Asif Merchant, allegedly attempted to hire hitmen in Brooklyn nightclubs to carry out assassination plots targeting key U.S. figures.
Iran’s history of threats and violence against the U.S. and its citizens is well-documented. From orchestrating attacks on U.S. bases in Iraq to plotting assassinations of American officials and journalists, Iran has consistently shown a willingness to use violence as a tool of statecraft.
In response to these threats, the U.S. government and its partners remain vigilant in the fight against Iranian-sponsored terrorism. The FBI has a long history of holding accountable those who threaten the safety of American citizens, and will continue to pursue justice against those who plot violence on U.S. soil.
The recent missile attack by Iran towards the U.S.-run Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar is just the latest in a series of provocations by the Iranian regime. While none of the missiles reached the base, the incident serves as a reminder of Iran’s ongoing hostility towards the U.S. and its allies.
Overall, the U.S. government remains committed to countering the threats posed by Iran and other state sponsors of terrorism. The recent airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities are just one part of a broader effort to hold Iran accountable for its actions and protect American interests at home and abroad.
