The FBI successfully prevented a planned drone attack that would have involved explosives, snipers, and a storming of the White House. The attack was scheduled to occur during Donald Trump's 80th birthday UFC fight, which proceeded without incident over the weekend.
Details of the Plot
According to reports, the terror plot intended to use explosive-laden drones to strike buildings in the area, followed by snipers targeting fleeing crowds. A second wave of attackers would then attempt to storm the White House gates. Five individuals have been arrested in connection with the plot in Cincinnati, Ohio; Fredericksburg, Virginia; and other locations.
The plot was uncovered when officials discovered a Signal group chat discussing the potential attack, which was formed to target billionaires and politicians who received money from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee.
Official Statements
FBI Director Kash Patel stated: 'Thanks to the rapid action of this FBI, our partners, and the Department of Justice in a multi-state operation, multiple individuals are now in custody and allegedly planned attacks were stopped cold.'
White House spokesman Davis Ingle said: 'President Trump's No. 1 priority is the safety and security of anyone who is participating or attending the many events honouring the Nation during our historical semiquincentennial celebrations.'
The UFC Event
Trump's 80th birthday celebration featured a giant UFC ring erected outside the White House, with numerous celebrities in attendance. The President and UFC chief Dana White walked together from the Oval Office to the White House balcony overlooking the open-sided arena, nicknamed 'The Claw', on the South Lawn. The national anthem was played as a formation of fighter jets streaked overhead, prompting cheers and chants of 'USA, USA' from the crowd.
Among the 4,000 guests were British heavyweight boxing star Tyson Fury, wearing a 'Donald Trump for Prime Minister' baseball hat, and Meta boss Mark Zuckerberg, who was seen speaking with the president. Other notable attendees included FBI Director Kash Patel, acting US attorney general Todd Blanche, and House Speaker Mike Johnson. UK Ambassador to the US Sir Christian Turner posted an image of himself at the event on X, captioned: 'Celebrating US250 the American way.'
Security Measures
Security around the event was extensive, including rooftop shooters, K9 dogs, explosive detectors, and surveillance cameras to protect attendees. The president was surrounded by cabinet leaders, top administration officials, Republican lawmakers, and over 4,000 spectators.
