Lawmakers and journalists question security operation that allegedly kept more than 100 reporters and officials aboard decoy Air Force One

WASHINGTON: US Democrats have demanded a congressional briefing after revelations that President Donald Trump secretly switched aircraft during his return from a NATO summit amid an alleged Iranian assassination threat.

US intelligence reportedly identified a credible Iranian plot against Trump last month, prompting security officials to arrange an elaborate operation. Trump initially boarded Air Force One publicly before leaving through another exit and travelling in a catering vehicle to a separate US Air Force C-32A aircraft.

Meanwhile, more than 100 White House staff, officials and journalists remained aboard Air Force One without reportedly knowing about the threat or Trump’s departure.

Trump confirmed the aircraft switch on Tuesday, saying he followed instructions from the Secret Service and military.

Lawmakers Question Safety of Passengers

Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal described the operation as “unprecedented and surreal” and called for Congress to receive a detailed security briefing.

He questioned what measures authorities took to protect passengers aboard Air Force One after security officials apparently concluded that Trump should not remain on the aircraft.

The White House had publicly indicated Trump would travel to Britain aboard Air Force One. However, the president instead flew aboard the C-32A to RAF Mildenhall before apparently rejoining the presidential aircraft after landing.

Journalists Raise Concerns Over Deception

Furthermore, journalists criticised the administration for keeping the travelling press pool unaware of the security arrangements. Reporters aboard Air Force One were reportedly instructed to keep window shades closed during the journey.

Former US national security official Ned Price argued that authorities could have protected sensitive operational details without misleading journalists.

CNN anchor Jake Tapper also questioned whether officials had previously used an aircraft carrying journalists and White House personnel as a decoy during an imminent threat.

Meanwhile, the Committee to Protect Journalists said reporters should receive information about credible dangers when necessary to make informed safety decisions.

The controversy has intensified demands for explanations about how authorities balanced presidential protection, operational secrecy and passenger safety.