Pakistani man tells US court Iran ‘forced’ him into alleged Trump plot

A Pakistani national accused of conspiring to assassinate former US President Donald Trump testified in a US court that he was compelled by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) to participate in the alleged plot, according to reports.

During his trial on Wednesday, Asif Merchant stated before jurors that he did not willingly collaborate with the IRGC to plan the attack. Merchant claimed his involvement was motivated by a need to protect his family, who were residing in Tehran at the time. “I was not wanting to do this so willingly,” Merchant told the court, as quoted by sources familiar with the proceedings. He further asserted that his actions were taken under duress, citing concerns for his family's safety.

The US Justice Department has accused Merchant of attempting to recruit individuals within the United States to carry out a plan targeting Trump and other American politicians. The alleged plot was said to be in retaliation for the killing of Qassem Soleimani, a senior commander of the IRGC, by the United States.

Prosecutors have rejected Merchant’s claims of coercion, arguing that there is insufficient evidence to support his defense of duress. According to prosecutors, Merchant’s assertion lacks the necessary evidentiary backing to establish that he was forced into participating in the alleged conspiracy.

The IRGC is recognized for its significant influence in Iran, encompassing military, economic, and intelligence operations. However, the focus of the trial remains on the specific allegations against Merchant and the circumstances surrounding his alleged involvement.

The trial continues, with both sides presenting their arguments regarding Merchant’s intent and the nature of his alleged actions. No verdict has been reported as of yet.