In a dramatic escalation of security measures, Donald Trump’s campaign has formally requested the use of military aircraft and vehicles to safeguard the former president during the final stretch of the 2024 US presidential election.
This request follows two recent assassination attempts and warnings from US intelligence officials about alleged threats from Iran to kill the Republican candidate.
The Trump campaign's appeal for heightened protection includes military-grade assets such as vehicles and aircraft, as well as expanded flight restrictions over Trump's residences and campaign events.
Biden and Netanyahu hold their first conversation in weeks. Trump recently called the Israeli leader
The campaign has also sought prepositioned ballistic glass at rallies in key battleground states, according to sources cited by The New York Times and The Washington Post.
Highest Protection, but More Requested
While the US Secret Service confirmed that Trump is already receiving the "highest levels of protection," it acknowledged that the campaign had requested additional measures. A representative emphasized that the agency remains vigilant and will "adjust and enhance its protective posture" as needed to counter evolving threats.
The push for extra security comes on the heels of an intelligence briefing Trump received last month. During this meeting, US officials allegedly warned him of credible assassination plots linked to Iran, though specific details of the threats have not been publicly confirmed.
Biden Okays Expanded Security
President Joe Biden weighed in on the issue, confirming that Trump is being treated with security measures similar to those afforded to sitting presidents.
"If Trump's request falls within that category, it should be granted," Biden told reporters, signaling that the necessary resources would be deployed to ensure the safety of his political rival.
Events Disrupted by Security Concerns
The Trump campaign has voiced concerns that inadequate security has already impacted their schedule. They claim to have been forced to reschedule, relocate, or outright cancel several campaign events due to threats and insufficient protection.
These security lapses are reminiscent of the widespread criticism the US Secret Service faced after the first assassination attempt on Trump in July, which led to the resignation of its director.
Despite these incidents, there have been no known ties between the alleged shooters and Iran, and investigations into the attempts are ongoing.
As Trump faces off against US Vice President Kamala Harris in the upcoming November 5 election, the heightened security measures underscore the intense atmosphere surrounding the election and the personal risks facing the candidates.
With concerns over foreign involvement in assassination plots and disruptions to his campaign trail, the former president's calls for increased military protection mark an unprecedented moment in modern US political history.
Source: With inputs from agencies & newspapers
Tags: Trump protection, Iran-linked threats