President Donald Trump secretly departed from Turkey on a military aircraft last month, while the White House publicly claimed he was aboard Air Force One, according to multiple reports. The move was prompted by an Iranian assassination threat, sources say. The Washington Post reported that Trump’s departure was part of an elaborate ruse to avoid potential danger, with the administration making it appear he was traveling on the presidential jet (The Washington Post).

A senior US official claimed Trump was forced to hide in an airport catering cart before being secretly flown out of the country on a military jet, according to the Daily Star. This tactic was used to keep his whereabouts confidential and avoid any risk of targeted action. The incident occurred during the NATO summit in Ankara, where Trump had been attending discussions with world leaders.

The situation highlights the heightened tensions between the US and Iran, with the threat of violence looming over diplomatic efforts. Trump has previously expressed a willingness to seek compensation from Iran for casualties in conflicts, a stance that has drawn criticism from some quarters. The secret flight underscores the perceived urgency of the security threat and the lengths to which the administration is willing to go to protect the president.

Sources
  • Arab News PK — Trump used elaborate ruse to fly out of Turkiye following summit because of Iran threat, report says
  • sundayworld.co.za — US ‘low-keying’ negotiations as Iran reshuffles key security posts
  • npr.org — President Donald Trump walks to board Air Force One at Morristown Airport, Sunday, Aug. 9, 2026, in Morristown, N.J.
  • Al Jazeera — If you’re just joining us
  • People Daily — Trump secretly smuggled out of Turkey in catering cart after Iran assassination threat
  • dailystar.co.uk — Trump 'hid in catering cart' to escape Iran assassination plot after NATO summit
  • nst.com.my — Trump took secret flight out of Turkiye due to Iran threat, the Washington Post reports
  • Business News Nigeria — WORLD IN BRIEF: Trump seeks Iran compensation, Libya central bank chief resigns, Colombia quake kills 111 and other stories