The "Imminent" Threat of Soleimani

Put aside that President Trump's latest justification, for the killing of Quds Force leader Soleimani, differs from past explanations, has been contradicted by other officials, is unsupported by any evidence, was not included in the briefing given Congress and defies the plain meaning of imminent. If an attack on four American embassies was imminent presumably  it was already planned and merely awaiting a go-ahead, a signal just as easily given by Soleimani's successor who would have increased incentive to retaliate. Taking out Soleimani would, therefor, prevent nothing.

Further, by publicly outlining those plans, Mr. Trump has increased the prospect that terrorist cells will feel called upon to carryout what they likely will regard as Soleimani's dying wish. Thus, Mr. Trump's inconsistent and evolving string of excuses has increased, not diminished the risk of harm to Americans.