Iranian media has issued direct death threats against former President Donald Trump as tensions between the United States and Iran reach dangerous new levels amid nuclear negotiations and military posturing.
At a Glance
- Iran’s influential Kayhan newspaper, considered the mouthpiece of Supreme Leader Khamenei, published an explicit threat to assassinate Donald Trump
- The threat comes in response to Trump’s promise of “bombing” if Iran fails to negotiate a nuclear deal and as revenge for the 2020 killing of General Qassem Soleimani
- Iran has placed its military on “full alert” and is reportedly accelerating nuclear weapons development
- Trump has instructed his team to “obliterate” Iran if he is assassinated
- U.S. military has deployed B-2 bombers to Diego Garcia aimed at potential Iranian targets
Iranian Media Issues Direct Threats Against Trump
The Kayhan newspaper, widely regarded as the voice of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, recently published an alarming article suggesting a targeted assassination of former President Donald Trump. The paper’s editorial spoke in explicit terms about retaliation for the 2020 drone strike that killed Iranian Lt. Gen. Qassem Soleimani, commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ elite Quds Force. The threatening language represents a serious escalation in the already tense relationship between the United States and Iran.
“He’s way out of line! Any day now, in revenge for the blood of Martyr Soleimani, a few bullets are going to be fired into that empty skull of his and he’ll be drinking from the chalice of a cursed death.” stated a Kayhan newspaper.
Jason Brodsky, a prominent Iran analyst, noted the significance of the newspaper’s threats, stating: “Kayhan has repeatedly threatened to assassinate President Trump for years. Kayhan’s editor Hossein Shariatmadari is a personal representative of Iran’s supreme leader.” This connection to Iran’s highest authority lends the threats additional weight and credibility in the eyes of many security experts.
Military Posturing and Nuclear Negotiations
Iran has placed its military on “full alert” in response to potential U.S. strike threats. According to multiple reports, Supreme Leader Khamenei is amassing troops and has ordered a withdrawal from Yemen to prepare for a potential conflict with the United States. These movements signal Iran’s seriousness about defending against any military action from the West while also potentially preparing offensive capabilities.
The tensions have risen significantly following Trump’s recent comments threatening military action if Iran doesn’t return to nuclear negotiations. Trump made his position clear during a recent media appearance, stating: “If they don’t make a deal, there will be bombing. But there’s a chance that if they don’t make a deal, that I will do secondary tariffs on them like I did four years ago.” These remarks prompted an immediate and hostile response from Tehran.
“I’ve left instructions if they do it, they get obliterated, there won’t be anything left.” said Donald Trump.
Nuclear Weapons Development and Security Concerns
Intelligence reports suggest Iran is accelerating its nuclear weapons development program, with warheads reportedly capable of reaching over 1,800 miles. Nuclear facilities in Shahrud, Semnan, and Sorkheh Hesar are believed to be active in this effort, with some analysts noting the influence of North Korean technology in Iran’s missile development program. This represents a significant security concern for the United States and its allies in the region.
The United States has taken precautionary military measures, stationing B-2 stealth bombers on Diego Garcia, positioned within striking range of Iran. Federal authorities have also been actively monitoring Iranian threats against Trump and other U.S. officials. An Iranian agent was previously charged with plotting to kill Trump, highlighting the serious nature of these ongoing threats.
Regional and International Implications
Iran has issued stern warnings to Persian Gulf countries against supporting any U.S. military strike, stating such support would be considered an act of hostility with “severe consequences.” This threat places neighboring Arab states in a difficult position as they attempt to balance relationships with both Washington and Tehran. The potential for regional escalation remains a serious concern for international security experts.
“The enmity from the US and Israel has always been there. They threaten to attack us, which we don’t think is very probable, but if they commit any mischief, they will surely receive a strong reciprocal blow. And if they are thinking of causing sedition inside the country, as in past years, the Iranian people themselves will deal with them.” said Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Russia has entered the diplomatic fray, condemning U.S. military threats against Iran and calling for restraint. Moscow has described the situation as “unacceptable,” though Iran reportedly remains skeptical about Russia’s level of commitment in any potential conflict. The relationship between Trump and Putin could significantly influence Russia’s position should hostilities escalate further.
