President Trump recently terminated Secret Service protection for his former national security adviser, John Bolton, after returning to the White House.
According to The Hill, this action followed criticism from Bolton about Trump’s policies and has raised concern over Bolton's security amidst ongoing threats.
John Bolton, who served as the national security adviser until November 2019, had been under threat since departing from his role in the administration. After leaving, Bolton was subject to assassination threats from Iran, which led to an extended period of security provided by the Secret Service, reinstated by former President Biden in 2021.
The Department of Justice revealed in 2022 that an Iranian national associated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps was charged with a murder-for-hire plot targeting Bolton. The alleged plot involved Shahram Poursafi trying to hire assassins to carry out the killing between October 2021 and April 2022, with an offer of $300,000 for the hit.
The Biden administration had decided to extend Bolton's Secret Service protection in light of these serious threats, even though Bolton had publicly criticized Biden’s national security policies. This was seen as a move to ensure the safety of former high-ranking officials regardless of their political stance or statements.
Bolton responded to the cessation of his Secret Service protection in an email statement to The Hill on Tuesday, expressing his disappointment and concern over his safety. "I am disappointed but not surprised that President Trump has decided to terminate the protection previously provided by the United States Secret Service," Bolton stated.
He further highlighted ongoing threats by citing the DOJ's criminal charges against the IRGC official and the recent arrest linked to a new assassination attempt, adding, "That threat remains today, as also demonstrated by the recent arrest of someone trying to arrange for President Trump’s own assassination."
Bolton has been vocal about his disagreements with both Trump and Biden regarding their handling of national security. Despite his criticisms, Biden had extended his security cover, which Bolton appreciated. “Notwithstanding my criticisms of President Biden’s national-security policies, he nonetheless decided to extend that protection to me in 2021,” explained Bolton.
Throughout his tenure and even after his service, Bolton has faced increased personal threats due to his aggressive stance against various international issues, including his hardline approach towards Iran. This makes the removal of his Secret Service protection a significant risk and a potential political statement by Trump.
The Secret Service has declined to comment on this matter, adding another layer of complexity to the situation. Their silence leaves room for speculation about the motivations and implications of Trump's decision.
The government’s actions, such as offering a bounty of up to $20 million for information leading to the arrest or conviction of the IRGC member involved, underscore the severity of the threat against Bolton. These steps also highlight the international reach and impact of such conflicts.
Bolton’s situation reflects broader geopolitical tensions, especially between the U.S. and Iran, which have escalated over the years. His direct involvement in shaping U.S. foreign policy towards Iran during his time in the White House has made him a target, illustrating the personal risks run by public officials involved in international affairs.
In conclusion, the withdrawal of Secret Service protection for John Bolton raises important questions about the security and political motivations behind such decisions. Despite ongoing threats, including a direct assassination plot by an Iranian national linked to the IRGC, President Trump’s administration has chosen to end Bolton’s protection.
Bolton himself remains vocal and critical of both current and past administrations, underlining the complex interplay of national security, personal safety, and politics.