‘Sick and demented’! Why does Trump keep exploding at ‘fake news media’ over Iran war coverage?
Washington DC: Donald Trump has criticised major American news organisations, accusing them of spreading misleading coverage about the ongoing conflict with Iran.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump claimed the “fake news media” was downplaying the success of the United States Military during the conflict and publishing inaccurate headlines about alleged damage to US aircraft.
Trump specifically referenced reports suggesting that five US refuelling tanker aircraft had been destroyed during an attack on a base in Saudi Arabia.
According to the president, those reports were incorrect. He said the base had been struck earlier but the aircraft were not destroyed. Trump stated that four of the five planes had “virtually no damage” and had already returned to service, while the fifth aircraft sustained only minor damage and would soon be operational.
Trump also criticised prominent publications including The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal, accusing them of intentionally misrepresenting events during the war.
The remarks come as tensions between the Trump administration and media organisations intensify amid coverage of the ongoing US military operations in the Middle East.
Meanwhile, the chairman of the Federal Communications Commission, Brendan Carr, warned broadcasters that licences could be at risk if they fail to operate in what he described as the “public interest”.
Carr said broadcasters spreading “hoaxes and news distortions” would have an opportunity to correct their coverage before licence renewals are considered.
The statement sparked criticism from politicians and free-speech advocates who argued the remarks could threaten press freedom.
Brian Schatz described the warning as a directive that broadcasters provide positive coverage of the war or risk losing their licences.
Advocacy groups such as the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression also criticised the move, stating that the First Amendment protects the media’s right to report independently on government actions during wartime.
The war, launched by the United States and Israel against Iran on February 28, has drawn mixed reactions domestically. Polling data from Quinnipiac University suggests that a majority of American voters oppose the military action.
Despite criticism and continuing regional tensions, Trump has repeatedly insisted that the conflict is proceeding successfully and that Iran is seeking negotiations.
The escalating political and media confrontation has further intensified debate in the United States over war reporting, press freedom and the role of journalism during armed conflicts.