New York: Barron Trump, the youngest son of US President Donald Trump, has withdrawn from public life amid heightened security concerns following three assassination attempts against his father over the past two years, according to The New York Post.
The 20-year-old is reportedly maintaining a “reclusive” lifestyle while completing his sophomore year at New York University. He spent much of the summer with his mother, First Lady Melania Trump, at the Trump National Golf Club Bedminster in New Jersey, the report said.
“He doesn’t go out,” a source close to the Trump family told the publication. Another source described him as “The kid’s pretty reclusive”.
Barron reportedly dislikes being recognised in public and makes efforts to avoid attention. A source said he leaves quickly for private locations and added, “You don’t see him hanging around.”
Barron’s Concern Over Kirk Killing
According to the report, Barron had developed a close relationship with conservative activist Charlie Kirk and was deeply affected by his assassination. He reportedly informed his father about Kirk’s death, telling him, “This is what happens when you go out there”.
Melania Trump’s office asked the publication not to report details about Barron’s private life, citing security concerns. “in light of recent threats…any details concerning his [Barron’s] private life be excluded from all coverage,” the office said.
The First Lady is said to be protective of her son and supportive of his decision to stay away from the public eye.
Biden Extended Security Cover
As Trump’s first presidential term ended, Barron was facing the possible withdrawal of his Secret Service protection. Melania’s office then approached the White House and requested former President Joe Biden to extend the security arrangement. The Biden administration approved the request, as reported by DNA.
In a segment from Melania’s documentary, she tells Secret Service agents in January 2025, “I know Barron won’t go out. And I respect that.” She was speaking during preparations for Trump’s inaugural parade, which was initially expected to include the family walking along Pennsylvania Avenue. The outdoor plan was later shifted indoors because of freezing conditions.
Iran Video Triggers Alarm
Earlier this week, Iranian state television reportedly aired a segment outlining ways to target Barron and announced a USD 10 million reward. The video, released by IRGC-affiliated media and broadcast on Channel 3, was titled “Where to kill Barron Trump”.
It described and illustrated the university student’s movements, claiming he was “fully monitored”. The broadcast also alleged that a girl had once evaded Secret Service protection and sat beside Barron during a private meeting.
This besides, a previous Iranian state television video targeting Melania later turned its attention to Barron, ending with the warning, “This is just the beginning. Barron Trump, wait for us.”
The US Secret Service confirmed it was aware of the broadcast. “The US Secret Service is aware of the video and investigates anything that can be perceived as a threat toward our protectees,” spokesperson Nate Herring told CNN.
The agency said it would not comment on protective intelligence matters because of operational security concerns.
Iranian security chief Mohsen Rezaei, however, dismissed reports of a plot against Barron as false in an interview with Lebanon’s Al Manar TV on Thursday.