💨 Abstract

Donald Trump accused media outlets of spreading Iranian misinformation and called for "treason" charges, despite journalism's role in a functioning democracy. He praised FCC chair Brendan Carr for threatening news licenses, and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth urged "patriotic" reporting. Historically, such demands for optimistic headlines precede rising casualties. Trump's actions signal an attempt to control the narrative amid low war support and personal poll volatility. Journalists' compliance could further erode democratic principles.

Courtesy: metro.co.uk