Trump Attacks CNN’s Natasha Bertrand Over Iran Intel Report; Network Stands Firm
Former President Donald Trump has once again targeted CNN, this time focusing his ire on correspondent Natasha Bertrand following her reporting on a U.S. intelligence assessment concerning recent bombings in Iran. The cable news network has responded, issuing a statement declaring it “100% behind” Bertrand and her work.
CNN Stands by Its Reporter After Trump’s Criticism
The dispute centers on CNN’s initial report regarding a Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) assessment suggesting that U.S. bombing strikes against Iran’s nuclear program might only delay their progress by a matter of months. CNN clearly stated in its coverage that the assessment was preliminary.
Several other prominent news organizations, including The New York Times, The Associated Press, Reuters, and NBC News, subsequently published similar reports. Natasha Bertrand’s *role* at CNN involves covering the Pentagon and issues of national security.
“We stand 100% behind Natasha Bertrand’s journalism and specifically her and her colleagues’ reporting of the early intelligence assessment of the U.S. attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities,” CNN stated. “CNN’s reporting made clear that this was an initial finding that could change with additional intelligence. We have extensively covered President Trump’s own deep skepticism about it.”
The network added, “However, we do not believe it is reasonable to criticize CNN reporters for accurately reporting on the existence of the assessment and accurately characterizing its findings, which are in the public interest.”
Trump’s Response and White House Statement
Karoline Leavitt, Trump’s press secretary, seemingly confirmed the existence of the intelligence assessment in a formal statement issued, even while disputing its conclusions. Trump and his allies, however, appear to be criticizing CNN for reporting on the assessment at all, claiming that it disparages the members of the military involved in the strikes.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote, “Natasha Bertrand shoudl be FIRED from CNN! I watched her for three days doing Fake news. She should be INSTANTLY reprimanded, and then thrown out ‘like a dog.’ She lied on the Laptop from Hell story, and now she lied on the Nuclear Sites Story, attempting to destroy our Patriot Pilots by making them look bad when, in fact, they did a GREAT job and hit ‘pay dirt’ – TOTAL OBLITERATION! She should not be allowed to work at fake News CNN. It’s people like her who destroyed the reputation of a once great Network. Her slant was so obviously negative, besides, she doesn’t have what it takes to be an on camera correspondent, not even close. FIRE NATASHA!”
The White House also released a statement entitled “CNN Spews Fake News Based on Leaked Low-Confidence Intel.” The Defense Intelligence Agency included a statement saying, “This is a preliminary, low confidence report and will continue to be refined as additional intelligence becomes available. We are working with the appropriate authorities to investigate the unauthorized disclosure of classified details.”
Did You Know? The term “fake news” gained prominence during the 2016 U.S. presidential election, often used to discredit unfavorable reporting.
Trump Addresses CNN at NATO Summit
During a press conference at the NATO summit, Trump called on CNN’s Kaitlin Collins, urging her to acknowledge the “great” work of American soldiers. “You really should say how great our soldiers and our warriors are,” Trump said.
Collins responded, “I think everyone appreciates our soldiers and our warriors,” before proceeding with her questions.
Trump further stated that additional intelligence has been gathered, including speaking with individuals who have visited the obliterated site. “We’ve also spoken to people who have seen the site, and the site it obliterated. and we think everything nuclear is down there. they didn’t take it out.”
Key facts at a Glance
| Issue | Details |
|---|---|
| Initial Report | CNN reported on a DIA assessment about Iran’s nuclear program. |
| Trump’s Reaction | He attacked CNN and Natasha Bertrand, calling the report “Fake News.” |
| CNN’s Stance | The network fully supports Bertrand’s reporting. |
| White House | Issued a statement criticizing CNN’s reporting based on leaked intel. |
The Media Landscape and Political Scrutiny
The clash between political figures and news organizations is not new, but the intensity and directness of attacks have seemingly increased in recent years. The role of media in reporting intelligence assessments, especially those that might contradict official narratives, is a crucial aspect of a free press.
The scrutiny faced by journalists like Natasha Bertrand highlights the challenges of covering sensitive national security topics while navigating political pressures.
Pro Tip: Always verify information from multiple sources, especially when dealing with sensitive topics like national security and intelligence assessments.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Why did Donald Trump attack Natasha Bertrand?
Donald Trump criticized Natasha Bertrand for her reporting on a Defense intelligence Agency assessment regarding U.S. bombing strikes on Iran.
-
How did CNN respond to trump’s attacks on Natasha Bertrand?
CNN expressed full support for Natasha Bertrand’s journalism and her reporting on the Iran intel assessment.
-
What was the Iran intel assessment about?
the assessment suggested that U.S. bombing strikes on Iran may have set back the country’s nuclear program by only a few months.
-
Did other news outlets report on the Iran intel assessment?
Yes, other outlets like The New York Times, the AP, Reuters, and NBC News also reported similar findings.
-
What is Natasha Bertrand’s role at CNN?
Natasha Bertrand covers the Pentagon and national security for CNN.
-
What was Trump’s reaction to the reporting on the Iran intel assessment?
Trump vehemently attacked CNN and Natasha Bertrand, accusing them of “Fake News” and undermining the military’s actions.
What are your thoughts on the role of the media in reporting possibly controversial intelligence assessments? Do you believe public figures should directly criticize journalists for their reporting?
Share your opinions and discuss in the comments below!
