Kathmandu— Several major news organizations have accused US President Donald Trump’s administration of using journalists and staff as unwitting decoys last month while responding to intelligence suggesting a potential Iranian plot to assassinate him. The reports detail a complex series of plane swaps and transfers designed to conceal the president's travel arrangements, raising concerns about the safety of those traveling with the presidential entourage. The alleged deception occurred during Trump’s return from a NATO event in Türkiye to the UK, prompting questions about transparency and risk management within the White House.

Details of the Aircraft Switch

Initial reports indicated that President Trump switched from his usual Boeing 747-8 to an older Air Force One due to concerns about security features and life support systems. However, subsequent reporting revealed a more elaborate plan: Trump reportedly boarded the older aircraft before being secretly moved via airport catering truck to a smaller military plane for the actual flight to the UK. He then re-boarded the original Air Force One upon arrival, creating the illusion that he had traveled on it throughout the journey.

Journalists Express Concerns

News organizations including Reuters, CNN, The Washington Post, and The New York Times have voiced strong criticism of the administration’s actions. CNN senior reporter Aaron Blake stated that journalists felt they were treated as “unwitting and unknowing decoys very much in the line of fire.” The outlets argue that failing to inform those traveling with the president about the security arrangements put their lives at risk, especially given heightened tensions with Iran.

Precedent and White House Response

While decoy planes have been used previously – President Bill Clinton employed the tactic during a 2000 trip to Pakistan – reporters were reportedly briefed on the arrangement beforehand. In this instance, no such briefing occurred. The White House has defended its actions, with spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt stating last month that the newer Air Force One was “perfectly safe” but undergoing further enhancements. Trump himself claimed he acted on the advice of the Secret Service and military.

Investigations and Fallout

The Department of Justice reportedly attempted to subpoena journalists from The New York Times regarding their reporting on the new Air Force One, while the Pentagon recently revoked the security clearance of former Air Force chief Frank Kendall over accusations of leaking classified information about the aircraft. These actions have further fueled criticism and raised questions about potential attempts to suppress media scrutiny.

The incident has prompted renewed debate about transparency in presidential travel and the responsibility of protecting those accompanying the president, particularly during periods of heightened security threats.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.