Asif Merchant, also known as Asif Raza Merchant, has been charged with plotting to assassinate a U.S. politician or government official. The plot was intercepted by law enforcement before any harm could be done. Merchant, who was previously arrested in July 2024, is currently being held in federal custody.
Attorney General Merrick B. Garland emphasized that the Justice Department is dedicated to combating threats from foreign actors, while FBI Director Christopher Wray described the plot as a troubling example of tactics commonly used by the Iranian regime.
Court filings reveal that after spending time in Iran, Merchant arrived in the U.S. and sought help from a contact he believed could assist in his plan. This contact, who became a confidential informant, alerted authorities. Merchant then attempted to hire undercover agents, posing as hitmen, and even provided a $5,000 advance for their services.
Merchant was arrested on July 12, 2024, just before he was set to leave the country. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of life in prison. The investigation involved multiple FBI offices and other agencies working together to prevent the attack.
