Newly declassified FBI documents have shed light on a chilling plot to assassinate Queen Elizabeth II during her 1983 visit to the United States. The 102-page report reveals a chilling narrative of potential threats and heightened security measures undertaken to ensure the Queen’s safety.
The incident unfolded as Queen Elizabeth II, alongside President Ronald Reagan, embarked on a tour of California. Amidst the smiles and diplomatic pleasantries, a sinister threat lurked in the shadows. A phone call to a local police department from an individual claiming to be an Irish Republican Army (IRA) sympathizer set off alarm bells within the intelligence community.
The caller, whose identity remains shrouded in mystery, outlined two potential attack scenarios, both targeting the Queen. The first involved an attack during her visit to Yosemite National Park, a breathtaking natural wonder she was scheduled to explore with Prince Philip. The second, a brazen act of terror, involved dropping an object from the iconic Golden Gate Bridge onto the Royal Yacht Britannia.
Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip visiting Yosemite National Park in 1983
The gravity of these threats, emanating from the turbulent backdrop of Anglo-Irish relations and the IRA’s armed struggle against British rule in Northern Ireland, was not lost on the authorities. The Queen, as the symbolic head of the British state, represented a high-value target for those opposed to the crown.
The Secret Service, entrusted with the momentous task of protecting the Queen, responded swiftly and decisively. The walkways of the Golden Gate Bridge were immediately closed as the Royal Yacht Britannia approached, thwarting any potential attack from that vantage point.
Security measures were further heightened throughout the Queen’s US tour, reflecting the heightened state of alert. The FBI documents detail a series of anonymous threats, ranging from menacing phone calls during a visit to Kentucky to concerns surrounding her attendance at an Orioles game with President Bush in 1991. In the latter instance, it was believed that a large block of grandstand tickets had been acquired by anti-British protestors.
Queen Elizabeth II and President Ronald Reagan during her 1983 visit to California
The release of these documents provides a rare glimpse into the intricate security operations surrounding a head of state’s visit. It underscores the constant vigilance and behind-the-scenes efforts required to mitigate potential threats in an unpredictable world.
While the 1983 plot to assassinate Queen Elizabeth II remains a chilling reminder of the vulnerabilities inherent in high-profile events, it also serves as a testament to the effectiveness of intelligence gathering and security protocols. The swift response of law enforcement agencies, coupled with their commitment to safeguarding the Queen’s life, ultimately prevented a tragedy.
The documents, however, do not disclose whether any arrests were made in connection with the threats against Queen Elizabeth. The FBI, in a statement to NBC News, acknowledged the existence of additional records pertaining to the incident but remained noncommittal about their potential release date. The British government, for its part, declined to comment on the matter.
The 1983 plot to assassinate Queen Elizabeth II serves as a stark reminder of the enduring power of symbols and the lengths to which individuals or groups will go to make a political statement. It highlights the constant need for vigilance and preparedness in an era where security threats can emerge from unexpected quarters.
