The story: Former Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has claimed that he faces a “serious” threat of assassination. He has also described having recorded a video of himself relaying “secret” information as leverage to prevent his murder. In doing so, he is possibly pointing the finger at Iran’s security apparatus, as he has stated, “They themselves kill, and then hold the mourning ceremonies.”

The coverage:  Ahmadinejad—who served as president between 2005 and 2013 and is rumored to be planning to run for office again in June—stated on Feb. 28...