U.S. President Donald J. Trump has taken to his social media platform to sharply criticize major American news outlets, accusing them of undermining what he described as “one of the most successful military strikes in history.” In a post that quickly went viral, Trump targeted CNN and The New York Times, labeling them “FAKE NEWS” and “failing,” while claiming they had teamed up to “demean” the recent U.S. military operation in Iran.
“FAKE NEWS CNN, TOGETHER WITH THE FAILING NEW YORK TIMES, HAVE TEAMED UP IN AN ATTEMPT TO DEMEAN ONE OF THE MOST SUCCESSFUL MILITARY STRIKES IN HISTORY. THE NUCLEAR SITES IN IRAN ARE COMPLETELY DESTROYED! BOTH THE TIMES AND CNN ARE GETTING SLAMMED BY THE PUBLIC!” Trump wrote.
The post comes in the aftermath of heightened tensions in the Middle East, where the U.S. reportedly carried out coordinated strikes on Iranian nuclear infrastructure. While official confirmation of the extent of damage is still pending from the Pentagon and international watchdogs, Trump’s remarks assert complete destruction of Iranian nuclear sites—an extraordinary claim with significant geopolitical ramifications.
Trump’s criticism also feeds into a longstanding narrative he has cultivated against mainstream media, particularly CNN and The New York Times, which he has frequently accused of biased reporting and of downplaying his administration’s achievements.
The president’s declaration has sparked mixed reactions across political and diplomatic circles. His supporters hailed the military action and condemned the media for allegedly misrepresenting the event. Critics, however, warned that Trump’s inflammatory language and premature victory statements could escalate international tensions and complicate diplomatic efforts in the already volatile region.
Meanwhile, neither CNN nor The New York Times has issued a direct response to Trump’s latest accusations. However, both outlets have published analytical pieces and on-the-ground reports raising questions about the scope, legality, and long-term impact of the recent military action in Iran.
As the situation develops, observers await independent verification from international agencies such as the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and statements from Iranian authorities, who have thus far been tight-lipped following the reported attacks.
Trump’s post is expected to further dominate the media and political discourse in the coming days, especially as the United States braces for the upcoming 2024 presidential election cycle, in which Trump remains a central—and polarizing—figure.