Iran Planning Assassination of US Ambassador in South Africa as Revenge for Soleimani's Killing: Politico

The Iranian authorities are considering the possibility of an assassination attempt against US Ambassador Lana Marks in South Africa as a response to the killing of Qassem Soleimani, commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps' Quds Force. This was reported by Politico on September 13, citing representatives from US intelligence.

The report notes that US intelligence has been aware of the threat to the ambassador since spring, but more specific information about the planned attack has emerged in recent weeks. According to a representative of the US authorities, the Iranian embassy in South Africa may be involved in the conspiracy to assassinate the diplomat.

US intelligence agencies, based on this information, do not yet know why Lana Marks was specifically chosen as a target, but it may be explained by her long-standing personal acquaintance with former President Donald Trump and their reportedly friendly relations.