Donald Trump, U.S. presidential candidate, declared during a Michigan rally on April 22 that his recent briefing prompted the removal of eight Iranian presidential hopefuls from contention.
Trump’s Bold Assertions
Addressing supporters via Truth Social, Trump stated, “The eight presidential candidates slated for elimination in Iran today will no longer hold high positions after receiving a wake-up call through my briefing.” He added, “Good social,” emphasizing his influence.
Trump further detailed, “Four are set for immediate replacement, while the remaining four face warnings within one month.” He expressed pride, noting, “As the U.S. presidential candidate, I warned Iran and its extremists through the briefing I conducted, and I feel proud of that achievement.”
Earlier posts showed Trump posing with photos of the eight individuals, urging Iranian leaders, “Replacing these executives would bring great regret.” He warned, “Do not give them hair,” signaling the onset of deeper collaboration.
Iran’s Firm Denial
Iranian officials rejected the claims outright. A government spokesperson asserted, “Trump’s campaign fabricated this news again.” They clarified that most executives had already been replaced, with no evidence linking remaining changes to political motivations.
Context Behind the Photos
Analysis reveals the images depict members of the U.S.-based Iranian exile group ‘Rope Project,’ also known as ‘Hiwa,’ which recruits such figures. Among them: Olha Cho, involved in Iran’s Revolutionary Guard elections and receiving U.S. settlement aid; Veta Hemati, a Kurdish executive and Ensi leader naturalized in the U.S.
These developments highlight ongoing tensions, with Trump positioning his rhetoric as a direct catalyst for internal shifts in Iran.
