Trump requests military aircraft amid reported Iranian threat: Report

WASHINGTON

Concerned about a reported threat by Iran, former US President Donald Trump’s campaign has requested the use of military aircraft and vehicles to protect him as he travels the country to seek a return to the White House, said a report on Friday. 

The campaign requested military aircraft for Trump to fly in during the final weeks of the presidential race, expanded flight restrictions over his residences and rallies, ballistic glass pre-positioned in seven battleground states for the campaign’s use, and an array of military vehicles to transport Republican nominee, according to the Washington Post.

The requests came after Trump’s campaign advisers received briefings in which the government said Iran is still actively plotting to kill him, according to emails reviewed by the Post and the people familiar with the matter.

Referring to emails sent from campaign manager Susie Wiles to Ronald L. Rowe Jr., the head of the Secret Service, the Post said Wiles expressed displeasure with the Secret Service, adding that the campaign recently had to cancel a public event at the last minute due to a “lack of personnel” from the Secret Service, which has been squeezed by a shortage of agents at the height of the presidential race.

In response to a question from a reporter if he would approve Trump’s request, Biden said he directed the Pentagon to give the former president “every single thing he needs” to keep him safe in the final weeks of the presidential campaign. 

“If it fits within that category, that’s fine. But if it doesn’t, he shouldn’t,” said Biden. 

There are heightened concerns for Trump’s safety, with his campaign recently stating that he had been briefed on “real and specific threats” from Iran.

Trump was recently the target of two apparent assassination attempts, both by Americans with no reported ties to Iran.

Trump, who served as president from 2017 to 2021, is seeking to win back his former job, facing off against Kamala Harris, the current vice president and Democratic Party nominee.

US Election Day is on Tuesday, Nov. 5, just weeks away.

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