The plot by China and Iran to intimidate, harass and plan attacks against dissidents living in the United States

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Transnational Repression: Chinese and Iranian Governments Accused of Harassing and Targeting Activists in the US

Recent criminal cases exposed the extreme lengths to which the Chinese and Iranian governments are willing to go to intimidate, harass, and even plan attacks against political opponents and activists living in the United States. From surveillance and harassment to murder-for-hire plots, the accusations against these regimes paint a troubling picture of the potential consequences of geopolitical tensions.

One such case involved Wu Jianmin, a former student leader of the 1989 Chinese pro-democracy movement, who was attacked by protesters outside his home in California. The protesters shouted slogans, distributed leaflets, and verbally abused him, showcasing the tactics used by those seeking to silence dissenting voices.

Similarly, Iranian journalist Masih Alinejad found herself targeted by an Eastern European organized crime gang, allegedly directed by Iran, in a murder-for-hire plot. The Justice Department thwarted the plan, but the incident highlights the very real dangers faced by activists speaking out against human rights violations.

The Justice Department has opened cases against dozens of suspects involved in transnational repression plots, with tactics becoming more sophisticated. Countries like China have been accused of launching programs such as “Operation Fox Hunt” to locate and coerce expatriates wanted by Beijing, crossing serious red lines in their efforts to project power abroad.

Despite denying involvement in such practices, the Chinese embassy in Washington has faced allegations of targeting Chinese expatriates in the US. Chinese-American pastor Bob Fu, who advocates for religious freedom in China, has endured harassment campaigns, including false bomb threats and protests outside his home.

The cases shed light on the far-reaching impact of transnational repression and the lengths to which authoritarian regimes will go to silence dissent. While the FBI has been successful in thwarting some plots, the chilling details of these criminal cases underscore the very real threats faced by activists and political opponents living in exile.

As tensions with China and Iran continue to escalate, the targeting of dissidents on US soil raises concerns about the safety and security of those who dare to speak out against oppressive regimes. The cases serve as a stark reminder of the importance of defending freedom of expression and protecting those who stand up for human rights, even in the face of grave danger.