US Secret Service learnt of Iranian plot to assassinate Donald Trump prior to shooting

Twenty-year-old gunman Thomas Matthew Crooks was shot dead at the scene by the Secret Service following the incident.

Trump then flew to Milwaukee the following day, where he was officially announced as the Republican candidate for November's election. In his first interview following the shooting, Trump told the NY Post that he “should be dead”.

Now, sources speaking to CNN told the publication that an alleged assassination plot which came to the Secret Service’s attention in recent weeks, caused Trump’s security to be ramped up.

The sources added that there was no indication that Crooks was connected to the plot.

In a statement, Secret Service spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi said that the agency recently “added protective resources and capabilities to the former President's security detail”.

The FBI, which is conducting the investigation into Saturday’s attempted assassination, declined to comment.

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In a statement, the Trump campaign said: “We do not comment on President Trump’s security detail. All questions should be directed to The United States Secret Service.”

It is unknown whether the former President’s team knew about the possible Iranian plot.

They have received warnings recently urging them to reconsider holding outdoor rallies, as they pose greater risks than events held indoors, which the Secret Service can better control.

However, the warnings are allegedly more general in nature and did not specifically mention the Iranian threat.

Stepping out his first public appearance since Saturday’s shooting, Trump, his stricken ear covered with a bandage, was met with a chant of “fight, fight, fight” from his supporters. He appeared with his newly-appointed Vice-Presidential pick, JD Vance at the Republican National Convention (RNC) in Milwaukee.

Though Trump - now officially confirmed as the Republican candidate - waved to crowds at the RNC, he appeared to fight back tears as he stepped out with his bandaged ear.

He was given a standing ovation as country star Lee Greenwood sang "God Bless the USA" - while Trump's son, Donald Jr, also appeared emotional as he entered the room.

Meanwhile, Republican Party Chairman Michael Whatley told the convention that Americans should show "the same strength and resilience as President Trump" in the aftermath of his close call.