Ex-Trump Defense Secretary Calls on Biden to Increase Efforts to Prevent Iran’s Threats against Officials

Former Defense Secretary Mark Esper, who was among the Trump administration officials targeted by Iranian threats, called on the Biden administration to be more proactive than reactive in addressing the ongoing security concerns. Esper, speaking at the Aspen Security Forum in Colorado, highlighted the need for a stronger approach in dealing with the threats posed by Iran following the assassination of Iranian Gen. Qassim Soleimani in 2020 by then-President Trump.

Esper stated that his personal security has been reinforced, along with a few of his colleagues, due to being on Iran’s target list. He emphasized that merely playing defense against the threats is insufficient, referencing a thwarted plot against John Bolton, another former Trump administration official, as an example.

The Biden administration, according to National Security Council spokeswoman Adrienne Watson, views the situation as a critical national and homeland security issue. In addition to Esper, other high-ranking former Trump administration officials receiving heightened security measures include retired Army Gen. Mark Milley and retired Marine Gen. Frank McKenzie.

Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and his top Iran aide, Brian Hook, also continue to receive 24/7 protection due to credible threats on their lives from Iran. However, Iran’s mission to the United Nations has denied the allegations as baseless and hostile, emphasizing their commitment to seeking legal accountability rather than resorting to violent actions against former officials like Trump.

Overall, the ongoing security concerns stemming from Iranian threats have prompted calls for a more robust and proactive approach from the Biden administration in safeguarding the individuals at risk and addressing the underlying issues.