A preliminary intelligence assessment by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Office of Intelligence and Analysis found that opposition to the U.S.-backed conflict in Iran may have contributed to Cole Tomas Allen's alleged attempt to assassinate former President Donald Trump during the White House Correspondents' Dinner on April 25. The report, dated April 27, identifies Allen's criticism of U.S. military actions as a potential motivating factor in the attack.

Allen faces charges of attempted assassination, using a firearm during a violent crime, unlawfully transporting weapons across state lines, and a newly added count of assaulting a federal officer after allegedly firing on a Secret Service agent at a security checkpoint. Prosecutors say Allen disagreed with Trump's policies and sought to 'fight back' against decisions he viewed as morally objectionable, according to court filings.

Investigating agencies are analyzing Allen's social media activity, including posts on Bluesky where he criticized U.S. actions in Iran, immigration enforcement, Elon Musk, and Russia's war in Ukraine. One 2024 post, referencing a Bible verse, labeled Trump as 'the devil' in a reply to a message from Trump's daughter, Tiffany. Law enforcement officials say the review aims to establish clear motive and prevent the spread of online conspiracy theories.

The FBI continues to assess Allen's digital footprint as part of a broader effort to understand the suspect's ideological leanings and potential radicalization. The Justice Department has not linked Allen to any organized group, and no additional suspects have been identified. The court is expected to schedule a plea hearing in the coming days.