Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has firmly denied accusations that Iran has orchestrated multiple assassination attempts against U.S. President-elect Donald Trump and other former American officials. In a televised interview, Pezeshkian stated, “Iran has never attempted to, nor does it plan to, assassinate anyone. At least as far as I know.” This response comes amid growing concerns over Iran’s alleged role in plots targeting American leaders.
Allegations of Iranian Plots
The denials follow revelations by U.S. intelligence and law enforcement agencies regarding Iran’s purported involvement in planning attacks on Trump and other high-profile U.S. officials. In November 2024, the Department of Justice unsealed an indictment against Farhad Shakeri, an alleged operative for Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The indictment accused Shakeri of orchestrating assassination plans against Trump, former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, and other officials linked to the 2020 killing of Iranian General Qassem Soleimani.
The allegations intensified after reports in July 2024 detailed an Iranian plot targeting Trump during a public appearance. The plan prompted heightened security measures by the U.S. Secret Service. Officials have described these attempts as part of Iran’s broader retaliation for Soleimani’s assassination, which Tehran has repeatedly vowed to avenge.
Iran’s Position
Despite these reports, Iranian officials have consistently dismissed the claims as baseless. President Pezeshkian characterized the accusations as politically motivated fabrications aimed at undermining Iran’s global standing. “These allegations are nothing more than propaganda designed to provoke tensions and distract from other issues,” Pezeshkian added.
Iran’s leadership has long maintained that any actions taken in response to Soleimani’s death would adhere to international law and diplomatic norms. Tehran has filed grievances with international bodies, seeking what it describes as “legal justice” for Soleimani’s killing, which they view as a violation of sovereignty and international law.
The Soleimani Factor
The January 2020 U.S. drone strike that killed Soleimani near Baghdad International Airport marked a turning point in U.S.-Iran relations. Soleimani, a revered figure within the IRGC and among Iranian hardliners, was instrumental in shaping Iran’s regional strategy and support for proxy groups in the Middle East. The strike, ordered by Trump, was justified by the U.S. as a defensive measure to prevent imminent attacks on American personnel.
In response, Iran launched missile strikes on Iraqi bases housing U.S. troops and vowed to target those involved in the operation. Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei called for “severe revenge,” escalating fears of further confrontations.
Security Concerns for Trump
President-elect Trump has publicly acknowledged the threats, stating in September 2024 that Iran had already made attempts on his life. “They tried, and it didn’t work out,” Trump said during a campaign rally. “I’m surrounded by more guns than I’ve ever seen in my life.” His comments underscored the persistent risks facing American leaders linked to the Soleimani operation.
Trump has pledged to take a hardline stance against Iran upon assuming office, including plans to reinstate sanctions and re-designate the IRGC as a terrorist organization. These measures are expected to further strain U.S.-Iran relations.
International Implications
The allegations of assassination plots have drawn international scrutiny, with U.S. allies expressing concerns over Iran’s actions and the potential for further escalation. Meanwhile, Tehran’s denials have done little to alleviate fears of a resurgence in hostilities. Experts warn that the continuation of such plots, if proven, could lead to severe repercussions, including military strikes or broader regional conflict.
What Lies Ahead
As President-elect Trump prepares to return to the White House, his administration’s policies toward Iran will likely include a mix of economic pressure and military readiness. The ongoing allegations of assassination attempts highlight the deep-seated animosity between the two nations and the challenges of navigating diplomatic solutions amidst escalating tensions.
Iran’s denials, juxtaposed with U.S. intelligence findings, leave the international community questioning the credibility of each side’s claims. With both nations standing firm in their positions, the world watches closely for how these tensions will unfold in the months ahead.