Trump Calls New York Times ‘TREASONOUS’ Over Iran War Coverage
Donald Trump erupted late Sunday night, targeting The New York Times for its critical coverage of his military actions in Iran, labeling the outlet's reporting as “TREASONOUS.”
On his Truth Social platform, he slammed the newspaper for what he described as “FAKE & MADE UP ‘FACTS’” regarding a battered Iran. He threatened to add their “false and ridiculous reporting” to his multi-billion dollar lawsuit against them, declaring, “They are Criminals!”
In a separate post, he expressed outrage over a headline that questioned the impact of nearly four months of war, stating: “The headline in the Corrupt and Failing New York Times: ‘What Changed After Almost 4 Months of War? Analysts Say Not Much.’ REALLY?”
Trump boasted about the state of Iran’s military capabilities, claiming, “Their Military is DONE, their Navy is GONE, their Air Force is GONE,” while asserting that their economy is in shambles with inflation at 250% and soldiers unpaid. He contrasted this with the U.S. economy, which he claimed is thriving with record highs in the stock market and job growth.
He further declared, “That’s what’s CHANGED, you corrupt and unethical cowards, and MORE!!!”
His comments drew support from South Carolina Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham, who called Trump’s remarks “spot on” and criticized the Times article as an insult to U.S. service members.
The article by journalist Neil MacFarquhar highlighted that a recent memorandum of understanding between the Trump administration and Iran appears to be faltering, as Iran threatens to close the Strait of Hormuz in retaliation for Israel’s actions in Lebanon.
MacFarquhar noted that Iran’s response to Operation Epic Fury has bolstered its position as a regional power, with retaliatory airstrikes against U.S. allies and control over a vital oil passageway.
Fuel prices have surged, adding political pressure on Trump domestically, where rising living costs are a significant concern for voters. A CBS News poll revealed that nearly three-quarters of Americans believe the war has not justified its costs.
In response to Iran's threats, Trump warned that the U.S. would “take over the rest of the country” if shipping tankers are obstructed again.
Trump has a long-standing feud with The New York Times and other media outlets he perceives as biased against him. He frequently accuses them of disseminating “fake news” without providing substantial evidence.
Last September, he initiated a $15 billion defamation lawsuit against the Times, which was dismissed by a judge for being “tedious and burdensome” without a solid argument.
Unfazed, Trump filed an amended 40-page complaint in October against the newspaper, its publisher Penguin Random House, and several reporters.
The Times has dismissed the lawsuit as lacking merit and an attempt to suppress independent journalism while generating publicity for Trump.
In addition to the Times, Trump has also pursued legal action against ABC News, CBS’s 60 Minutes, and The Wall Street Journal over their coverage of his administration.
