Trump Revokes Security Protections for Pompeo, Hook, and Bolton Amid Iran Threats
President Donald Trump has revoked government-provided security protections for former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, his top aide Brian Hook, and former national security adviser John Bolton, despite ongoing threats from Iran. The decision, which took effect on January 23, 2025, was confirmed by multiple sources and reported by outlets including The New York Times, Politico, and The Associated Press.
Pompeo, Hook, and Bolton were key figures in Trump’s first administration, known for their hardline “maximum pressure” campaign against Iran. This included the 2020 U.S. airstrike that killed Iranian General Qassem Soleimani, a move that has made them targets of Iranian retaliation. The Biden administration had maintained their security details due to credible and ongoing threats, with the State Department reportedly spending over $2 million monthly to protect Pompeo and Hook alone.
Trump defended the decision during a press conference, stating, “Do you want to have a large detail of people guarding people for the rest of their lives? There’s risks to everything.” Critics, however, have called the move “highly irresponsible,” given the active threats against the former officials. A former Biden administration official noted that Trump’s team was briefed on the risks but chose to proceed regardless.
Bolton, who has been a vocal critic of Trump since leaving the administration, confirmed the loss of his protection, expressing disappointment but not surprise. Pompeo and Hook, who remained loyal to Trump, have not publicly commented on the decision. The move has raised questions about whether it reflects retribution for perceived disloyalty or a broader shift in Trump’s foreign policy approach.
The revocation of security details for these officials marks a significant departure from the Biden administration’s policy and underscores the ongoing tensions between Trump and some of his former advisers. It also highlights the risks faced by former officials who have taken aggressive stances against foreign adversaries during their tenure.
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President Donald Trump has revoked government security protection for former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and his top aide, Brian Hook.
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