President Trump Claims CNN and NYT May Fire Reporters Over Iran Strike Reporting

On Thursday morning, President Trump alleged on social media that CNN and The New York Times might dismiss reporters responsible for publishing a preliminary assessment by the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) regarding recent Iran strikes. He claimed these outlets falsely reported that the strikes significantly impacted Iran’s nuclear facilities. Trump stated, “Rumor is that the Failing New York Times and Fake News CNN will be firing the reporters who made up the FAKE stories… because they got it so wrong.”

Trump disputed the DIA’s initial conclusions, asserting that Iran’s nuclear sites at Fordow, Isfahan, and Natanz had been “totally obliterated,” contradicting the assessment’s suggestion that the damage was limited to several months’ delay in nuclear development. Despite his claims, there is no confirmed evidence that CNN or The Times intend to fire any journalists over this report.

Meanwhile, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth held a press briefing to counter the media narrative and provide detailed insights into the military operations, explaining how bunker-buster bombs like the GBU-57 MOP are used and clarifying that the aftermath of the strikes may not fully reveal the damage, as these bombs do not leave large craters.

Both CNN and The New York Times have maintained their reporting. A CNN spokesperson affirmed support for journalist Natasha Bertrand, emphasizing that their coverage was accurate and responsible, noting that initial assessments can change. Similarly, The Times reaffirmed its report, stating that the U.S. security team later confirmed the DIA’s preliminary findings.

Trump concluded by criticizing media coverage and expressing his approval of the briefing session, calling it “one of the greatest and most professional news conferences I have ever seen,” and suggesting that news outlets should fire those involved in what he termed a “witch hunt.”