Pakistani Man Accused of Plotting Trump Assassination Claims Iran Forced Him

Asif Merchant says he was coerced by Iran's Revolutionary Guard and feared for his family's safety.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A Pakistani businessman accused of plotting to assassinate former President Donald Trump, as well as President Joe Biden and former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley, testified that he was coerced by Iran's powerful paramilitary Revolutionary Guard and feared for his family's safety. Asif Merchant, 47, claimed he only took part in the alleged 2024 assassination scheme because Iran threatened his relatives.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Iran, with allegations of the Iranian government attempting to orchestrate political assassinations on American soil. It also raises questions about the role of coercion and duress in such national security cases.

The details

Merchant was indicted in July 2024 after he was recorded outlining a plot to kill an unnamed politician. He allegedly tried to hire two hit men, who turned out to be FBI agents, and pay them $5,000. Merchant was arrested as he was attempting to leave the country, before he could take any concrete steps to carry out a murder plan. Authorities said at the time that he appeared to be acting at the behest of Iran.

  • Merchant was indicted in July 2024.
  • Merchant was arrested in April 2024 as he was attempting to leave the country.

The players

Asif Merchant

A 47-year-old Pakistani businessman accused of plotting to assassinate former President Donald Trump, President Joe Biden, and former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley.

Donald Trump

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

Joe Biden

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

Nikki Haley

The former U.N. Ambassador and presidential candidate who was allegedly targeted in the assassination plot.

Iran's Revolutionary Guard

The powerful paramilitary organization that Merchant claims coerced him into participating in the alleged assassination plot.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“My family was under threat, and I had to do this. I was not wanting to do this so willingly.”

— Asif Merchant

“He did not tell me exactly who it is, but he told me — he named three people: Donald Trump, Joe Biden and Nikki Haley.”

— Asif Merchant

What’s next

If convicted, Asif Merchant faces a maximum penalty of life in prison.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Iran, with allegations of the Iranian government attempting to orchestrate political assassinations on American soil. It also raises questions about the role of coercion and duress in such national security cases.