Iran Accused Of Meddling In US Elections, White House Responds

Holiday decorations adorn the library of the White House for the 2023 theme "Magic, Wonder, and Joy," Monday, Nov. 27, 2023, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has criticized the White House following a recent intelligence report that revealed Iran's alleged attempts to sabotage former President Trump's presidential campaign. The report, disclosed during an Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) press briefing, stated that U.S. spy agencies had observed Tehran working to influence the election, utilizing online personas and propaganda to spread disinformation.

While the ODNI did not explicitly state that Iran was targeting Trump, an official mentioned that there had been no shift in Iran's preferences since 2020, indicating continued focus on the Republican candidate. Pompeo, in response to the findings, expressed his lack of surprise at Iran's actions, attributing them to the Biden-Harris administration's perceived policy of 'weakness and appeasement.'

Pompeo further accused the current administration of enabling the Iranian regime, leading to Iran's resurgence in power and resources. He warned that Iran, which he claimed despises American values, would likely continue meddling in U.S. democracy to support Vice President Kamala Harris and maintain its influence.

Iran, through its Permanent Mission, denied the interference allegations, stating that it does not engage in activities to influence U.S. elections. The Mission also refuted claims of a separate plot to assassinate Trump, labeling them as unsubstantiated and malicious.

During a congressional hearing, FBI Deputy Director Paul Abbate mentioned that officials were exploring all possibilities regarding Iran's involvement in the alleged assassination attempt on Trump. While no evidence of foreign or domestic co-conspirators, including Iran, has been found, Abbate emphasized that all avenues were being investigated.

The White House has been approached for comment on the matter, but no response has been provided at the time of reporting.