Former US President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning to Iran, stating that he has left instructions for the United States to bomb the country “like never before” if he is assassinated. The threat comes amid continued Iranian vows of revenge for the 2020 drone strike that killed top commander Qasem Soleimani.
Trump’s Warning and Instructions
In a statement on Thursday, Trump said: “I have left instructions that if Iran kills me, they should bomb Iran like never before. I hope you’ll miss me, but don’t take any chances.” The former president did not specify the nature of these instructions or whether they were communicated to current US officials.
Iran has repeatedly vowed retaliation for the January 2020 strike near Baghdad airport, which Trump ordered. Iranian officials, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, have called for revenge. The threat has persisted for years, with Iran accusing Trump of violating international law.
Background of the Soleimani Strike
Qasem Soleimani was the head of Iran’s Quds Force, a unit of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) responsible for overseas operations. The US justified the strike as a response to imminent threats, but Iran condemned it as an act of war. Since then, Iran has taken steps to reduce its commitments under the nuclear deal and has increased enrichment activities.
Trump’s latest comments escalate the rhetoric. He added, “Iran knows I mean business. They should think twice before trying anything.” The former president has a history of aggressive statements toward Iran, including threatening to destroy Iranian cultural sites during his term.
Reactions and Implications
Analysts note that Trump’s remarks could further strain US-Iran relations. The Biden administration has sought to revive the nuclear deal, but progress has been slow. Iran has denied any active plot to assassinate Trump, though security officials have warned of potential threats.
According to a former US intelligence official, “Trump’s comments are not official policy but reflect his personal stance. Any assassination attempt would likely trigger a severe military response, regardless of who is in office.” The official spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter.
The US State Department declined to comment on Trump’s statement. However, current security protocols for former presidents remain in place, with the Secret Service providing protection.
