US President Donald Trump was secretly transferred from an older Air Force One aircraft to another military jet through an airport catering truck during a security operation linked to an Iranian threat, according to reports.
The unusual operation reportedly occurred during Trump’s departure from Turkey, where authorities had concerns about the security of the aircraft he was expected to board.
According to reporting by The Washington Post, the operation involved creating the appearance that Trump was departing on the older Air Force One while he was instead moved discreetly to another military aircraft.
The reported security manoeuvre was prompted by what US authorities considered a serious threat linked to Iran.
Reports said Trump was moved through an airport catering vehicle before boarding an alternative military aircraft, while the older Air Force One served as a decoy.
The operation was reportedly designed to prevent potential attackers from identifying the aircraft carrying the President.
The episode highlights the extraordinary security measures employed around the US president amid heightened tensions involving Iran.
Reports of the operation have also raised questions about the extent of the security threat and the measures taken by US authorities to protect Trump during his international travel.
The White House had publicly maintained that Trump was aboard Air Force One during his departure, according to the Washington Post report.