Iran’s state-aligned news agency has released a propaganda video containing threats against First Lady Melania Trump and President Trump’s youngest son, Barron, marking an escalation in tensions between Tehran and Washington.
The Tasnim News Agency, which operates with ties to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, distributed the roughly two-minute video this week. The production shows images of Melania Trump at locations around New York City, including designer stores where she shops.
What the Video Contains
The video overlays target-like circles on storefronts including Bergdorf Goodman and Saks Fifth Avenue as a limousine passes by. The narrator describes these shopping locations as “suitable for operations by global freedom fighters,” according to officials briefed on the content.
The footage proposes using the nerve agent VX to contaminate clothing purchases and suggests bribing three of Melania Trump’s personal stylists to carry out such an action. At the video’s conclusion, the threat extends to Barron Trump, with the narrator stating: “This is just the beginning. Barron Trump, wait for us.”
Security Response
The U.S. Secret Service confirmed awareness of the video and stated it investigates any perceived threats to its protectees. Both Melania and Barron Trump maintain full-time Secret Service protection, and all Trump family residences remain under enhanced security.
The East Wing did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the video or any concerns about the threats depicted.
Pattern of Threats
This video represents the latest in a series of threats directed at the Trump family since military operations involving the United States and Israel. Last week, billboards appeared throughout Tehran with messages threatening President Trump and his family members, including language stating “Blood for blood.”
Another billboard displayed mock images of Melania, Barron, and Ivanka Trump accompanied by the word “KILLED” and messaging directed at the president. These public displays reflect broader Iranian messaging against the Trump administration.
Presidential Response
President Trump has addressed the Iranian threats directly, stating “I’ve been on their list for a long time,” according to comments made to reporters this month. He emphasized the potential consequences of any attack, saying “The only thing is, I’ve left instructions-if anything happens, to just literally bomb them at levels that they’ve never seen before.”
Earlier this month, Trump switched from a new Air Force One to an older model while departing Turkey following a NATO meeting, citing Iranian threats as a factor in the decision.
