Photo Credit: Getty Images
In a shocking move that has raised eyebrows across the political world, President Donald Trump has revoked the security detail of his former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. For years, Pompeo received protection due to the persistent threats from Iran following his hardline stance against the country during Trump's first administration.
The White House's decision to strip Pompeo of his security detail, which was reported by The New York Times, came shortly after Trump also terminated the Secret Service protection of former National Security Adviser John Bolton. Trump defended his move by saying, "When you have protection, you can't have it for the rest of your life." Sure, Mr. Trump, but considering Pompeo and Bolton were both targets of a foiled Iranian assassination plot, it's a bit hard to see how that makes sense.
Iran has vowed revenge for the killing of top general Qasem Soleimani, and Pompeo and Bolton were among the most high-profile figures involved. Is it really wise to strip protection from people facing active threats? Critics argue that Trump's decision was motivated more by "spite and pettiness" than by any strategic reasoning. But then again, what's politics without a little drama, right?
In any case, as tensions with Iran continue, Pompeo, Bolton, and Trump may want to keep a watchful eye on what's unfolding in the coming months. We can only hope that cooler heads prevail.
