WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has criticized American media outlets over their coverage of the ongoing conflict involving Iran, describing some reports as “practically treasonous” and accusing journalists of undermining US interests.
In a statement posted on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump condemned reports suggesting that Tehran may hold a stronger strategic position in the conflict involving the United States and Israel. He argued that such reporting amounted to assisting the enemy and giving Iran “false hope.”
“Reports implying that Iran is in a favourable position are helping the enemy,” Trump wrote, adding that Iran “should not have any reason for hope.”
Trump also intensified his rhetoric against sections of the American press, calling some journalists “cowards” who were acting against their own country. He further stated that only “losers, ingrates, and fools” could argue against the United States during a time of conflict.
According to media sources, many high-level officials in the Trump administration have also criticized the US media for its unfavourable coverage of the administration’s policies regarding the war.
On the other hand, CNN also reported that Trump had directed the US Department of Justice to send subpoenas to reporters covering the Iran crisis in order to identify confidential sources for leaks of information.
It is being stated by political commentators that the relations between Trump and major US media institutions have once again become strained, especially in light of growing criticism against the administration’s policies and strategy abroad.
The latest statements will likely contribute further to the debate in the capital regarding press freedom and the role of the media during times of war.
How much is the US spending on the Iran war? Pentagon reveals massive costs
Meanwhile, the Pentagon has revealed that the United States has so far spent approximately $29 billion on its ongoing military operations in Iran, significantly exceeding initial estimates.
The news was shared at a Pentagon briefing to the Congressional Defense Committee by Pentagon’s chief financial officer Jules Hurst III. As Hurst revealed, while the initial estimate released on April 29 was $25 billion, further studies increased the expenditure to $29 billion.
“The joint staff and Pentagon comptroller’s group constantly review military expenditure, and now we are reporting the sum total of our spending in this region,” Hurst said during the meeting.
Factors contributing to growing expenses in the war against Iran included costs associated with repairs and replacements for damaged equipment, continuous deployment of U.S. troops in the region, and rising costs of operations.
The members of Congress have concerns on the cost of the war against Iran to the citizens of America and whether America has enough resources to continue funding the war. The Democrats and the Republicans felt that it was important to keep the American public updated on all the costs related to the war against Iran.
It has been predicted by economic experts that continued tension in the Middle East will put pressure on America’s defense budget. Increased costs of oil around the world and continued military costs will also affect the economy of America.
From the US press reports, it can be noted that the Iran war is composed of naval forces, air strikes, missile defense, deployment of more troops, and covert operations, which increase defense spending.
