U.S. offers $20 million reward for information on assassination plot against John Bolton

Former U.S. national security advisor John Bolton has publicly expressed his dismay over the recent charges against former president Donald Trump. Bolton described the allegations as "weaker than [he] feared." The comments have sparked significant debate and speculation within political circles, drawing attention to the implications of the charges on Trump's legacy and Bolton's perspective on the matter.

In a separate but related development, the U.S. State Department has issued a reward of up to $20 million for information leading to the arrest of Shahram Poursafi, a member of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), in connection with a murder-for-hire plot targeting Bolton. The plot, which allegedly involved a $300,000 payment for the assassination, is said to have taken place between October 2021 and April 2022.

Poursafi, believed to be working on behalf of the IRGC-Quds Force, is accused of conspiring with "criminal elements" within the U.S. to carry out the assassination in Washington, D.C. The allegations suggest a coordinated effort by Poursafi to provide "material support and resources" to facilitate the attempted killing, raising concerns about the extent of foreign involvement in domestic affairs.

In a bid to address the security threat posed by Poursafi, the U.S. Department of Justice unsealed a criminal complaint against him on August 5, 2022. Subsequently, on June 1, 2023, the U.S. Department of the Treasury designated Poursafi as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist, effectively blocking any of his property or interests in the U.S. and prohibiting American citizens from engaging in business with him.

International Implications

These developments have not only raised concerns within the U.S. but have also drawn international attention, particularly in light of the ongoing U.N. General Assembly, where world leaders convene to discuss pressing global issues. Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian highlighted Iran's desire to play a pivotal role in world affairs during the assembly. These statements come amidst heightened scrutiny of Iran's activities on the international stage, including alleged involvement in assassination plots.