Iranian Intelligence Agent Convicted for Terrorism in U.S. Assassination Plot

A federal jury has found Asif Merchant, an Iranian national, guilty of attempted murder for hire and terrorism. Merchant, who operated under the alias “Asif Raza Merchant,” was a trained operative for Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). He traveled to the United States with intentions of conducting political assassinations and theft of sensitive documents.

Details of the Assassination Plot

Merchant arrived in the U.S. in April 2024, where he met with individuals he believed could assist in his assassination scheme. Those individuals were actually undercover law enforcement agents. His criminal activities came to light before he could leave the country in July 2024.

Statements from Officials

• Attorney General Pamela Bondi emphasized the effectiveness of U.S. law enforcement, stating Merchant intended to kill President Trump.
• FBI Director Kash Patel noted this incident was not an isolated attempt by Iran to harm American citizens.
• Assistant Attorney General John A. Eisenberg reiterated the threat Merchant posed to U.S. democracy and stability.
• U.S. Attorney Nocella highlighted the importance of vigilance against foreign terrorist threats.

Merchant’s Background and Mission

Merchant began his involvement with the IRGC in late 2022 or early 2023, receiving training in espionage techniques. In 2023, he was sent to the U.S. to scout potential recruits for the IRGC. By early 2024, he returned with a mission to arrange the assassination of U.S. officials, including politicians.

Conducting the Plot

While in New York, Merchant communicated with an acquaintance, Nadeem Ali, who reported his intentions to authorities. During meetings with Ali, Merchant outlined plans involving assassination, protests, and theft of documents.

Merchant indicated that instructions for his targets would be communicated while he was overseas. He was also aware of the need for operational security, as he inquired about security details surrounding potential victims.

Final Steps before Arrest

Merchant met with undercover agents in June 2024 to finalize his plot. He paid them an advance of $5,000 for their services. Law enforcement intervened on July 12, 2024, just before Merchant could escape the country.

Law Enforcement Collaboration

The investigation was a collaborative effort among multiple agencies, including the FBI’s Field Offices in several U.S. cities and local law enforcement agencies. The case will be prosecuted by attorneys from the Eastern District of New York’s National Security & Cybercrime Section.

Asif Merchant faces a potential life sentence for his role in this significant plot against U.S. officials. This conviction stands as a reminder of the persistent threats facing the nation from organized terrorism.