US Officials Accuse Israel of Influence Attempt Over Trump Flight Security Warning

A recent report by The New York Times revealed that US President Donald Trump flew from the NATO summit in Ankara on his old Air Force One plane instead of the newer model gifted by Qatar due to a "special security recommendation" amid escalating tensions with Iran. On Saturday, the Wall Street Journal reported US concerns that Israel may have shared this intelligence to influence decision-making in the White House, aiming to push Trump toward renewed military action against Iran.

According to US officials cited in the reports, the intelligence was a single, context-lacking piece that often provides only a partial view of the threat. They noted that Iran understands that an attack on Trump could provoke a severe military response. While Trump has favored diplomacy, Israeli military sources reportedly continue planning further strikes on Iranian targets, seeking to maintain pressure through air campaigns.

The Israeli embassy emphasized that intelligence sharing with the US is based on close partnership and not intended to promote hidden agendas such as encouraging war. The Israeli Prime Minister's office did not respond to requests for comment.

US officials clarified that the plane switch just before takeoff from Turkey was a precautionary measure without a specific threat. Flight data showed the plane’s tracking transmitter was activated only after crossing the Black Sea near Istanbul, and the crew was instructed to keep window covers closed during the flight. Trump denied the security rationale, stating the new plane took an earlier route to visit US military bases and be showcased to troops, though he later acknowledged the possibility of Iranian threats influencing the decision.