Assassination attempts on Fidel Castro refer to the numerous documented instances of planned attacks with the intention to kill the Cuban revolutionary leader and former President, Fidel Castro. Castro, a prominent figure in the world politics during the 20th century, faced numerous attempts on his life by dissidents, exiles, and foreign intelligence agencies.
These assassination attempts sought to eliminate Castro as a political threat or destabilize the Cuban government. The attempts took various forms, ranging from conventional methods to more imaginative and unconventional approaches. Some well-documented attempts involved the use of firearms, explosives, poison-laced cigars, and contaminated diving suits.
Most of these attempts were attributed to anti-Castro Cuban exiles based in the United States, particularly during the early years following the Cuban Revolution in 1959. Some attempts were reportedly supported or facilitated by foreign intelligence agencies, mainly the United States Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). The motives behind these attempts varied, including opposition to Castro's communist regime or attempts to regain confiscated properties and businesses.
Despite numerous assassination plots, Fidel Castro survived all known attempts on his life until his death in 2016, ruling Cuba for nearly five decades. The attempts on Castro's life have become a notable chapter in modern history, illustrating the high stakes and intensity of global Cold War politics during the 20th century. They have also given rise to discussions regarding the ethics and consequences of covert operations, international relations, and the challenges faced by political leaders in maintaining their security.
