Trump confirms secret plane swap in Turkey over Iranian assassination threat

Published Aug 12, 04:56 AM UTC

US President Donald Trump confirmed on August 12, 2026, that he secretly switched planes in Turkey in July following a NATO summit in Ankara, prompted by an Iranian assassination threat. The Secret Service orchestrated the deception, transferring Trump from Air Force One to a military plane via a catering truck. The White House did not disclose the change, which remained secret until reported by The Washington Post. Trump stated that the military plane he ultimately flew on was at greater risk than Air Force One, as adversaries would likely target that aircraft. The trip was the first international travel for a newly renovated Qatari-donated jet, and occurred amid escalating hostilities with Iran. Trump emphasized he was following Secret Service direction and did not question the threat details.