Iranian-American journalist Masih Alinejad, targeted in a plot to assassinate her, continues to face threats for speaking out against Iran’s regime.
On February 1, 2026, Iranian protester Erfan Soltani, 26, was released on bail after facing a death sentence linked to anti-government protests. His release follows Iranian officials' denial of his execution and international pressure amid US military posturing. Separately, US courts sentenced Carlisle Rivera for plotting to kill Iranian dissident Masih Alinejad, highlighting ongoing transnational repression.
On April 10, 2026, Asif Merchant, a 47-year-old Pakistani national, faces life imprisonment for attempting to hire assassins to kill Donald Trump during the 2024 US presidential campaign. Merchant paid two undercover FBI agents $5,000 each as an advance for the hit. The plot was uncovered after a confidential informant alerted authorities, leading to Merchant's arrest in July 2024.
Multiple sources report Iran's attempt to assassinate former President Trump, which was thwarted when the Iranian unit responsible was killed in a US-led operation. The plot involved Iranian Revolutionary Guard elements and was linked to revenge for Qasem Soleimani's death. The US has charged Iranian nationals over the conspiracy.
The US has revoked green cards and detained several Iranian nationals linked to Iran's regime, including Shamim Mafi, accused of brokering arms deals, and Seyed Eissa Hashemi, son of Masoumeh Ebtekar. The crackdown targets regime affiliates living in the US, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio leading efforts citing national security risks.
President Trump has announced that Iran has reportedly released eight women who were facing execution after he reposted claims they faced hanging. Multiple sources confirm only one woman, Bita Hemmati, faces a confirmed death sentence. The situation remains complex amid conflicting reports and ongoing tensions.