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Former Defense Secretary Mark Esper has called on the Biden administration to adopt a more proactive approach against Iranian threats to former US officials. Esper, along with other high-level former Trump administration officials, remains under constant security due to Iran’s desire for revenge over the killing of General Qassim Soleimani in 2020.
What’s the deal: While speaking at the Aspen Security Forum about plots from Iran wanting to target former US officials, Esper said, “This administration needs to do a far better job in terms of how we deal with this problem.” He also noted that just protecting US officials is not enough, alluding that the Biden administration should do more than just “playing defense.”
Personal Impact: Esper revealed at the forum that he has faced personal threats against his life since the strike that killed Soleimani. Having left office in 2019, he stated, “I’m part of the group on their hit list, so like a few of my colleagues, I have a very robust 24/7 security detail that watches over me and several of us.”
Who else receives protection: In addition to former Secretary of Defense Mark Esper, other former US officials currently receive government protection due to credible threats from the Iranian government. These individuals include Mike Pompeo, the former Secretary of State, who remains a significant target due to his role in the Trump administration’s “maximum pressure” campaign against Iran, and Brian Hook, the former US Special Representative for Iran, who was also instrumental in implementing policies against Iran. Both Pompeo and Hook’s security details are regularly renewed due to ongoing serious and credible threats. Additionally, John Bolton, the former National Security Advisor, is under protection as the FBI has intensified efforts to safeguard him from assassination plots linked to Iranian operatives seeking revenge for Soleimani’s death. Robert O’Brien, another former National Security Advisor, is also receiving government-funded protection due to similar threats.
Pushback from Iran: Following claims that Iran was plotting to assassinate former President Donald Trump over his involvement in the strike against Soleimani, Iran’s mission at the United Nations responded by stating, “These accusations are unsubstantiated and malicious.” They added, “From the perspective of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Trump is a criminal who must be prosecuted and punished in a court of law for ordering the assassination of General Soleimani. Iran has chosen the legal path to bring him to justice.”
