Continuation of Threats from the Islamic Republic; US Extends Protection Order for Pompeo and Hook

The Biden administration has once again extended the protection order for Mike Pompeo, former Secretary of State, and Brian Hook, the US Special Representative for Iran, who have been targets of ongoing threats from the Islamic Republic. The US State Department informed Congress late last month that the threats against Pompeo and Hook remain 'serious and credible.' Pompeo and Hook were key figures in the US 'maximum pressure' campaign against the Islamic Republic of Iran following Donald Trump's withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal. The Islamic Republic holds both individuals responsible for the killing of Qassem Soleimani. Iranian officials have repeatedly stated that those responsible for Soleimani's death must face retribution. The Free Beacon reported on January 25, 2022, that the US State Department believes three threats against Hook have occurred since January 2021, when the Trump administration was still in power. This is the sixteenth time the State Department has provided protection for Hook since he left his position in January 2021, and the thirteenth time the protection order for Pompeo has been extended, as he was automatically granted government protection several months after leaving office. The Associated Press reported in March 2022 that the State Department spends over $2 million monthly to ensure 24-hour security for Pompeo and Hook. The latest extension of their security has not provided a specific amount. Two Republican members of Congress stated that the Islamic Republic is still considering assassination in the US as revenge for Qassem Soleimani's death, highlighting the increased protection for former US officials against threats from the Islamic Republic.