Pakistani man with alleged ties to Iran planned to hire hitmen to assassinate former President Donald Trump and other US politicians in New York City. He paid advance payments to undercover law enforcement officers posing as contract killers, but was arrested before executing the plot.
Key Points
Asif Merchant planned to hire hitmen to assassinate Donald Trump and other US politicians in New York City
He paid advance payments to supposed contract killers who were actually undercover law enforcement officers
Merchant's arrest prevented the execution of the plot
Pros
Preemptive arrest prevented potential harm to politicians
Undercover operation successfully exposed the plot
Cons
Potential risk to the safety of the individuals involved
Alleged ties to Iran raise concerns about international relations