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Trump switched planes in Turkey earlier this month because of threat from Iran proxy forces - report
The Guardian • • world
Key Points:
- Donald Trump switched from the new Qatari-donated Boeing 747-8 to the older Air Force One before leaving Turkey after US officials detected a credible threat from Iranian proxy forces targeting him and his aircraft.
- The threat emerged during the NATO summit in Ankara, prompting the Secret Service to recommend the aircraft change due to security concerns, especially since the newer plane lacks advanced defensive systems.
- US intelligence indicated the threat was aimed at Trump personally and whichever aircraft he was on, rather than specifically targeting the new Boeing 747-8.
- The White House has not commented on the report, and the Justice Department previously subpoenaed New York Times reporters over coverage of the security risks but has since dropped those efforts temporarily.
- Trump has warned of severe military retaliation against Iran amid escalating tensions and recent breakdowns in ceasefire talks, while also keeping diplomatic options open.
