Israel: Israel provided the US with new intelligence suggesting an Iranian plot to assassinate President Donald Trump, as reported by The Wall Street Journal. The information was revealed by sources familiar with the situation, highlighting a development that could intensify the already strained relations between Washington and Tehran.
According to Philippines News Agency, this revelation comes against the backdrop of Iran's longstanding vow to avenge the assassination of Qassem Soleimani, the commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps' Quds Force, on January 3, 2020. The potential implications of this new intelligence could further complicate the geopolitical dynamics in the region.
The Israeli Embassy in Washington chose not to comment on the matter, while Iran's Mission to the United Nations did not immediately provide a response to requests for comment. The White House directed inquiries to remarks made by Trump at the NATO Summit in Ankara, Trkiye. Trump stated, "They want to take out the US leader - me," acknowledging his awareness of being targeted and expressing a cautious attitude towards his safety.
Despite the escalating tensions, Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly had a phone conversation on Thursday, agreeing to maintain coordination efforts. This dialogue underscores the ongoing collaboration between the US and Israel, even amidst the rising threats.
The situation has been exacerbated by recent military exchanges between Iran and the US. Over the past two days, Iran and the US have engaged in retaliatory strikes following Iranian attacks on three commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran responded with strikes on US military infrastructure in Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and Jordan, marking a significant escalation in hostilities.
Source: Philippines News Agency