Israel Warns US of Iranian Plot Against Trump, Assesses No Immediate Threat to Israel

Israeli officials have conveyed new details regarding a warning sent to former US President Donald Trump about an alleged Iranian assassination plot against him in Turkey. The intelligence, reportedly provided by a Western agency, indicated Iran's intent to target Trump during his visit to Ankara. This led to a last-minute switch from Trump's new presidential aircraft, gifted by Qatar, to his older Air Force One plane for his departure from the NATO summit on July 6, 2023. The change was executed with unusual haste and security measures, including passengers covering windows and rapid boarding, reflecting heightened caution.

Despite escalating tensions between the US and Iran, Israeli authorities currently assess that Iran does not intend to attack Israel directly. Jerusalem believes that any strike on Israeli territory or population would significantly escalate the conflict, potentially spiraling out of control. An Israeli source expressed hope that Iran will not make such a miscalculation, noting that Israel remains outside the immediate conflict unless drawn in by American or Iranian actions.

The intelligence about the assassination plot was reportedly relayed to the US by Israeli officials, including explicit warnings from US Ambassador to Israel Mike Herzog. Iranian leaders viewed Trump's presence in Turkey as a rare opportunity for an attack, but the advance warning allowed US security to take precautionary steps. These revelations were published with approval from Israeli military censorship. The situation was reportedly discussed in a meeting with the Israeli Prime Minister, reflecting the seriousness with which Jerusalem is treating the intelligence and regional dynamics.