An Iranian state-linked news agency released a propaganda video containing threats against First Lady Melania Trump and her youngest son Barron, prompting security assessments from federal authorities.
The Tasnim News Agency, which has ties to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, distributed the video in recent days. The roughly two-minute production included images of Melania Trump at locations around New York City, with target markers overlaid on designer stores including Bergdorf Goodman and Saks Fifth Avenue.
Video Content and Direct Threats
The video suggested that Melania Trump’s shopping trips could serve as targets for what it described as “global freedom fighters.” It also proposed using the nerve agent VX to poison clothing purchases and named three of the first lady’s personal stylists as potential operatives.
The production concluded with a direct threat to Barron Trump, who is 20 years old. “This is just the beginning. Barron Trump, wait for us,” the narrator stated in the video.
Security Response
The Secret Service confirmed awareness of the video and stated it investigates all perceived threats to its protectees. Both Melania and Barron Trump maintain full-time Secret Service protection at all Trump family residences, including the White House, Trump Tower in New York, the Bedminster golf club in New Jersey, and Mar-a-Lago in Florida.
The East Wing did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the video’s release.
Pattern of Escalating Threats
This video emerged days after billboards appeared across Tehran containing threats against President Donald Trump and his family members. One billboard displayed images described as mocking depictions of Melania, Barron, and Ivanka Trump with the word “KILLED” stamped across them.
The threats follow increased tensions between the United States and Iran following military operations that resulted in the deaths of Iranian leadership figures. President Trump previously stated that any successful attack would result in severe military consequences. “I’ve left instructions-if anything happens, to just literally bomb them at levels that they’ve never seen before,” Trump told reporters earlier this month.
This story has been updated. CNN’s National Security team contributed to this report.
