Trump Suggests "Treason" Charges for Media Over Iran War Coverage

Hegseth has also accused news outlets of unfairly reporting on the Iran war and spreading false information about strikes. Photo: AFP/Getty

U.S. President Donald Trump has suggested that media outlets reporting what he called false information about the war with Iran could face treason charges, in a series of posts on his Truth Social platform.

Writing Sunday evening, Trump accused some outlets of spreading a fabricated story originating from Iranian sources that claimed a U.S. aircraft carrier had been destroyed. He said Iran circulated the claim along with what he described as an AI-generated video of the alleged attack.

«The story was knowingly FAKE,» Trump wrote. «Those Media Outlets that generated it should be brought up on charges for TREASON for the dissemination of false information.»

Under U.S. law, treason can carry severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and, in rare cases, the death penalty.

Trump also criticized reporters during a press interaction aboard Air Force One, calling ABC News «maybe the most corrupt news organisation on the planet.»

The remarks come as tensions continue over U.S. military strikes on Iran ordered in late February. Members of the Trump administration have repeatedly accused news organizations of distorting coverage of the conflict.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has also criticised journalists during recent briefings, accusing some outlets of publishing misleading headlines about the war and dismissing questions about its scope and possible escalation.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt has similarly clashed with reporters who questioned the administration’s justification for the strikes.

Meanwhile, Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr warned that broadcasters’ licenses could be reviewed if coverage is deemed unfair — a move that has raised concerns among media freedom advocates.

From economics and politics to business, technology and culture, Kursiv Uzbekistan brings you key news and in-depth analysis from Uzbekistan and around the world. To stay up to date and get the latest stories in real time, follow our Telegram channel.