Story perspectives

Pakistani Businessman Convicted of Murder-for-Hire Plot Against Trump

3/7/2026

Summary

Story summary

Asif Merchant, a Pakistani businessman, was convicted in Brooklyn court of murder-for-hire and terrorism for plotting to assassinate U.S. politicians, including U.S. President Donald Trump.
A Brooklyn jury took two hours to reach the verdict.
Merchant claimed duress from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and feared for his family.
He admitted the IRGC was designated a terrorist organization.
Evidence showed he sought hitmen and studied Trump rally locations.

History

Historical Context

In April 2019, the U.S. designated Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization, escalating tensions amid accusations of state-sponsored terrorism. This designation followed years of IRGC involvement in supporting militant groups like Hezbollah and conducting operations against U.S. interests. The move has led to increased sanctions and legal actions, highlighting the ongoing complexities of U.S.-Iran relations.

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Story summary

Asif Merchant, a Pakistani businessman, was convicted in Brooklyn court of murder-for-hire and terrorism for plotting to assassinate U.S. politicians, including U.S. President Donald Trump.
A Brooklyn jury took two hours to reach the verdict.
Merchant claimed duress from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and feared for his family.
He admitted the IRGC was designated a terrorist organization.
Evidence showed he sought hitmen and studied Trump rally locations.

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