Emmanuel Ochayi
DOJ Alleges Iranian Plot Against Trump Amid US Election Tensions
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has raised the alarm over alleged Iranian-backed plot to assassinate President-elect, Donald Trump, sparking renewed tensions between the two nations.
According to a DOJ report, the plot was planned by an Iranian national, Farhad Shakeri, who allegedly received orders from an official in Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC).
Join our WhatsApp ChannelWhile the DOJ claims to have thwarted the plot, Iran’s Foreign Ministry has strongly denied any involvement of the country.
DOJ Details Allegations of Trump’s Assassination Plan
According to a criminal complaint filed in a New York federal court, the Iranian national Farhad Shakeri, 51, was directed by an unnamed IRGC official to survey and plan the assassination of President-elect Trump. “Shakeri was tasked on October 7, 2024, with outlining a detailed plan to assassinate President-elect Donald J. Trump,” stated the complaint.
The complaint further mentions Shakeri’s role in recruiting two New York residents, Carlisle Rivera and Jonathon Loadholt, to monitor and ultimately harm an American of Iranian origin who is openly critical of the Iranian government. The target, journalist Masih Alinejad, has been outspoken about Iran’s government, making her a recurring target. The DOJ claims that Shakeri promised these individuals $100,000 for their involvement.
Attorney General Merrick Garland commented on the matter, stating, “The United States will not tolerate threats to its national security or the lives of its citizens, particularly when orchestrated by foreign actors.”
Iran Dismisses Allegations as “Malicious Propaganda”
The Iranian government has categorically denied the accusations, with foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei condemning the DOJ’s claims. Baghaei labeled the report “completely baseless and rejected,” asserting that the allegations were fabricated by “anti-Iranian circles” to further strain U.S.-Iran relations.
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“The repetition of such baseless claims is a malicious conspiracy orchestrated by Zionist and anti-Iranian circles,” said Baghaei, adding that Iran has faced similar allegations in the past, all of which have been, according to him, proven false. He further emphasised that Iran remains committed to protecting its citizens’ rights through “all legitimate and legal means” on the global stage.
Background on the Ongoing Tensions
The DOJ’s report emerges at a time when U.S.-Iran relations are already strained. Accusations against the IRGC are not new; the organisation has been linked to alleged threats against American officials and critics abroad. While the DOJ accuses Shakeri of providing “material support to a foreign terrorist organisation,” Iran maintains that the allegations are groundless and politically motivated.
This development adds another layer to the complex relationship between the two countries, especially with the recent U.S. election results playing a prominent role in shaping U.S. foreign policy moving forward.
Shakeri and His Co-Conspirators Face Charges
Shakeri and the alleged co-conspirators Rivera and Loadholt now face severe charges, including conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire, murder-for-hire, and money laundering. If convicted, these charges could result in lengthy prison sentences, with some carrying maximum penalties of 20 years.
Furthermore, Shakeri faces additional charges for conspiring to provide material support to a terrorist organisation, which also carries heavy penalties.
Escalating Tensions and Global Security Concerns
With the DOJ’s revelations and Iran’s denial, this case highlights the heightened tensions between the two nations. As the U.S. prepares for a new administration, questions loom over how these allegations will impact U.S.-Iran diplomatic efforts and national security strategies. While the U.S. has vowed to counteract foreign threats, Iran continues to assert its innocence, claiming these accusations are politically motivated.
The case is likely to add fuel to the ongoing U.S.-Iranian discourse, especially in light of the recent U.S. election and the transition of power.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
