Donald Trump threatens to ‘annihilate’ Iran if he is assassinated
President Donald Trump has issued explicit instructions to "obliterate" Iran if he is assassinated, a directive that underscores the escalating tensions between the two nations and highlights the potential for significant geopolitical repercussions.
In a recent declaration, President Donald Trump revealed that he has issued explicit instructions to "obliterate" Iran should the nation succeed in assassinating him. This pronouncement was made during the signing of an executive order aimed at intensifying pressure on Tehran, underscoring the escalating tensions between the United States and Iran. Federal authorities have been monitoring Iranian threats against Trump and other officials for years, particularly following the 2020 U.S. drone strike that killed Iranian General Qassem Soleimani.
The strained relations between the U.S. and Iran have been further exacerbated by recent events. In November, the Department of Justice announced the foiling of an Iranian plot to assassinate Trump before the presidential election. The alleged plan involved Farhad Shakeri, an Iranian agent, who was instructed by officials to surveil and ultimately eliminate the president. Shakeri remains at large in Iran.
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Escalation of U.S. sanctions on Iran
Concurrently, the U.S. has intensified its sanctions on Iran, aiming to exert "maximum pressure" to curb Tehran's nuclear ambitions and its support for terrorist groups. The recent executive order signed by Trump seeks to tighten sanctions on Iran's oil sales and enforce violations of existing restrictions, with the objective of reducing its exports to zero.
These developments have led to increased security measures for current and former U.S. officials. Despite the persistent threats, Trump recently revoked government security protection for former Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, and his top aide, Brian Hook, as well as his former national security adviser, John Bolton. All have faced threats from Iran due to their hardline stances against the Islamic Republic during Trump's first administration.
Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman, Nasser Kanaani. Photo: Al Jazeera.
International implications on US-Iran relations
The international community watches closely as these tensions unfold, recognizing the potential for significant geopolitical repercussions. Trump's firm stance and explicit directives signal a critical juncture in U.S.-Iran relations, with the possibility of further escalation if diplomatic solutions are not pursued.
As the situation develops, the global community remains vigilant, understanding that the actions taken by both nations could have far-reaching consequences. The emphasis on "maximum pressure" and the explicit warnings issued by President Trump highlight the precarious nature of the current U.S.-Iran relationship.