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Pakistani Businessman Convicted in Assassination Plot Against Trump

3/8/2026

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Summary

Merchant's Assassination Plot

A New York federal court convicted Asif Merchant, a Pakistani businessman, of attempting to hire hitmen to assassinate U.S. officials, including U.S. President Donald Trump.
The plot was linked to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and disrupted by U.S. authorities before execution.
Merchant said he acted under duress to protect his family in Iran and admitted planning during the 2024 campaign, facing life in prison.

Summary

Pezeshkian Apologizes for Attacks

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian apologized on March 7, 2026 for attacks on Gulf Arab states.
Pezeshkian said future strikes would occur only if provoked.
The comments follow the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and intensified U.S.-Israeli airstrikes on Iran, with over 1,230 reported dead in Iran.
Missiles and drones targeted Gulf states, including the United Arab Emirates, disrupting flights at Dubai International Airport.

History

Historical Context

The Iran Hostage Crisis began on November 4, 1979, when 66 Americans were taken hostage at the U.S. Embassy in Tehran by the Muslim Student Followers of the Imam's Line. This event, rooted in the Iranian Revolution and demands for the extradition of the deposed Shah, led to a significant decline in U.S.-Iran relations and the imposition of enduring economic sanctions, shaping U.S. foreign policy towards Iran for decades.

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Merchant's Assassination Plot

A New York federal court convicted Asif Merchant, a Pakistani businessman, of attempting to hire hitmen to assassinate U.S. officials, including U.S. President Donald Trump.
The plot was linked to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and disrupted by U.S. authorities before execution.
Merchant said he acted under duress to protect his family in Iran and admitted planning during the 2024 campaign, facing life in prison.

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