Pakistani Man Testifies About IRGC Coercion in Trump Assassination Plot

Asif Merchant claims he was forced to participate in the alleged scheme against the former U.S. president.

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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A 47-year-old Pakistani national named Asif Merchant has testified in a New York court about his alleged involvement in a plot to assassinate former U.S. President Donald Trump. Merchant claims he was coerced by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) to participate in the scheme.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Iran, as well as the potential threats facing former presidents even after leaving office. It also raises concerns about the IRGC's alleged efforts to target U.S. officials and citizens.

The details

According to Merchant's testimony, the IRGC approached him and tasked him with carrying out the assassination plot against Trump. Merchant alleges he was threatened and coerced into participating, though the full details of the plot remain unclear.

  • Merchant testified in a New York court on March 6, 2026.

The players

Asif Merchant

A 47-year-old Pakistani national who has testified about his alleged involvement in a plot to assassinate former U.S. President Donald Trump.

Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC)

Iran's elite military force that Merchant claims coerced him into participating in the alleged assassination plot.

Donald Trump

The former President of the United States who was allegedly targeted in the assassination plot.

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What they’re saying

“I was threatened and forced to take part in this plot. I had no choice.”

— Asif Merchant (wn.com)

What’s next

The court will continue to investigate the details of the alleged assassination plot and Merchant's claims of coercion by the IRGC.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Iran, as well as the potential threats facing former presidents even after leaving office. It also raises concerns about the IRGC's alleged efforts to target U.S. officials and citizens.