Bulletproof glass is already being provided for Trump rallies.Photo: gettyimages
In the context of growing threats from Iran, Donald Trump requested military aircraft and other vehicles during his election campaign. Although there is no evidence of Iranian involvement in the recent assassination attempts, government sources warn that Iran is still planning attacks. This information was reported by the Washington Post.
Trump’s requests
During the final weeks of the campaign, Trump’s team demanded that he be provided with military aircraft and ballistic glass to be deployed in seven states in case of need. This request is unprecedented, as no candidate has ever received military aircraft before an election in recent US history. Following briefings indicating that Iran is actively planning attacks on Trump, campaign advisers expressed concern about threats from drones and missiles.
Security issues
In her emails to the Secret Service, Susie Wiles, Trump’s campaign manager, expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of security, which led to the cancellation of a public event due to a shortage of staff. She noted that the administration had failed to provide a sufficiently large-scale plan to protect Trump, making it difficult to organise his speeches.
Congressman Michael Walz, who sits on the Intelligence Committee, has also asked the Secret Service for a military aircraft or additional protection for Trump’s private jet. Meanwhile, Trump’s spokeswoman declined to comment.
Response of the Secret Service
The Secret Service confirmed that Trump was receiving the “highest level of protection”. However, senior US officials have indicated that it is unlikely that military aircraft will be made available based on current intelligence. The Secret Service has already imposed temporary restrictions on flights over Trump’s residence and during his travels.
Security outlook
Despite Trump’s requests, experts believe that granting such requests would be unprecedented. The Secret Service has repeatedly stepped up security for Trump, but he and his team remain dissatisfied with the level of protection. Sources claim that there is no evidence to link Iran to the recent assassination attempts, although the FBI does not rule out the possibility.
In June of this year, the FBI arrested a Pakistani man who was trying to hire assassins to attack Trump on behalf of Iran, further exacerbating the situation. Recent events show that the threats from Iran remain serious, and Trump’s campaign has been under pressure from these threats.
