Iranian president denies plot to assassinate Trump

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has strongly rejected claims that Tehran planned to assassinate US President-elect Donald Trump, denying previous assertions made by Trump and the US government.

In November, the US Justice Department charged an Iranian national in connection with an alleged assassination plot orchestrated by Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps. The plot was reportedly foiled by US authorities before it could be carried out.

Trump had previously suggested that Iran might have been behind attempts on his life during his election campaign, which included two separate incidents—one in September while he was golfing in Florida, and another during a rally in Pennsylvania. Investigators found no evidence linking Iran to either incident.

In an NBC News interview, Pezeshkian categorically denied any such plans, stating, “None whatsoever. We have never attempted this, and we never will.”

The Iranian leader also emphasized that Tehran is not pursuing nuclear weapons, reaffirming Iran’s commitment to peaceful nuclear activities. He cautioned the incoming US administration, urging President Trump to avoid escalating tensions with Iran and risking war.

“I hope that Trump will contribute to peace, not provoke bloodshed or war,” Pezeshkian said, ahead of Trump’s return to the White House.

With no formal diplomatic relations between the US and Iran for nearly 45 years, Pezeshkian warned that Iran would respond to any military action against its nuclear facilities, including potential strikes from US ally Israel. However, he stressed, “We do not seek war, but we will react to any action.”

Regarding the 2015 nuclear deal, which saw Iran limit its nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief, Pezeshkian noted that Iran has adhered to the agreement until the US withdrew under Trump’s administration in 2018. He expressed skepticism about future negotiations, citing the US’s failure to honor past commitments.

“The problem isn’t dialogue, but the failure of the other party to live up to their promises,” Pezeshkian concluded.

As international tensions remain high, Iran has continued to deny accusations of interfering in US affairs, including through cyberattacks, while also reiterating its stance on its nuclear ambitions.

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