Pakistani national Asif Merchant, 46, has been arrested and charged with allegedly orchestrating a plot to assassinate former President Trump and other government officials. FBI Director Christopher Wray described Merchant as having "close ties to Iran."
Court documents reveal that Merchant, who has family in both Iran and Pakistan, came to the U.S. after spending time in Iran. He contacted an individual about his alleged plan, who then became a confidential source (CS) and contacted the FBI. In early June in New York, Merchant met with the CS and outlined his plot to commit a series of assassinations in the U.S.
According to the Department of Justice, Merchant's plan involved stealing documents or USB drives from a target's home, planning a protest, and ultimately killing a politician or government official. He stated that the assassination would occur after he had left the United States and that he would communicate with the CS from overseas using code words.
On June 21, Merchant met with undercover U.S. law enforcement officers in New York and paid them $5,000 in advance. He was arrested on July 12, 2024, the day he had planned to leave the country.
An assassination attempt against former President Trump occurred on July 13, but as of now, there is no evidence connecting that event to Merchant. The investigation into the alleged plot continues.
The case raises concerns about the potential threats posed by individuals with connections to foreign countries and highlights the importance of vigilance in preventing acts of violence against government officials. The FBI and other law enforcement agencies are working to ensure the safety and security of all individuals in the U.S.