Qasem Soleimani is back in headlines as the IRGC commander linked to early 2020 US strike that killed him; key Iranian military figure, born 1957.
The US has increased military pressure on Iran amid ongoing tensions, including troop movements and threats of military action. Iran warns of a forceful response, while diplomatic talks focus on Iran’s nuclear program and regional support. The situation remains highly volatile as both sides prepare for potential conflict.
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.
Recent attacks in the US, linked to ideological motives, highlight vulnerabilities as the counterterrorism system faces staffing and resource shortages amid escalating tensions with Iran. The FBI and other agencies are under strain following personnel purges and shifting priorities, raising concerns over national security readiness.
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.
On March 17, 2026, Joe Kent, director of the US National Counterterrorism Center, resigned, opposing the ongoing war with Iran. Kent stated Iran posed no imminent threat and accused Israeli officials and American media of pressuring the US into conflict. His resignation marks the highest-profile dissent within the Trump administration over the Iran war.
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 announced the successful rescue of a US Air Force colonel after his F-15 was shot down over Iran. The operation involved deep-in-country special forces and was completed without US casualties. Iran reported destruction of US aircraft and casualties during the rescue. Tensions escalate as Trump threatens attacks on Iranian infrastructure.
Shamim Mafi, an Iranian national and US permanent resident, has been held without bail in Los Angeles for allegedly brokering Iranian drones, bombs, and ammunition sales to Sudan. She faces up to 20 years in prison. Mafi reportedly operated through an Oman-registered company and maintained close ties with Iran's Ministry of Intelligence and Security while facilitating arms deals fueling Sudan's civil war.