The U.S. Justice Department charged Asif Raza Merchant, a Pakistani man, with plotting to assassinate American political figures, including former President Donald Trump. Merchant, who had recently spent two weeks in Iran, was arrested in New York on July 12, just before a shooting incident involving Trump in Pennsylvania.
However, officials found no evidence linking Merchant's plot to the Pennsylvania shooting.
Merchant allegedly sought to hire hitmen and steal information from U.S. officials. His plans included staging protests against U.S. policies towards Muslim countries. Merchant's arrest disrupted a broader conspiracy with international ties.
He reportedly offered a down payment for the assassination plot, planning to execute it in late August or early September.
During his time in the U.S., Merchant unknowingly engaged with federal informants and undercover operatives, which led to his arrest. His case highlights ongoing threats and underscores the need for vigilance against foreign adversaries.
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