CNN host Jake Tapper on Friday labeled President Donald Trump's accusation of treason against CNN and New York Times reporter David Sanger as both "deranged" and "dangerous." The accusation stemmed from their coverage of Iran's military capabilities following U.S. and Israeli strikes.
Tapper Defends Accurate Reporting
Tapper clarified that neither CNN nor the Times had reported that Iran was "doing well militarily." Instead, they accurately noted that Iran retains some military abilities despite significant blows. "The New York Times has not reported that the Iranians are 'doing well militarily,' nor has CNN," Tapper stated on his show "The Lead."
Trump's Rant on Air Force One
Trump's outburst occurred during a two-minute rant aboard Air Force One, where he called Sanger a "fake guy" and claimed a "total military victory" in Iran. He accused "fake news" outlets of writing about it incorrectly. "I actually think it's sort of treasonous what you write," Trump told the correspondent, adding that the Times and CNN should be ashamed.
Tapper noted that this is part of a broader Trump campaign, referencing a Truth Social post accusing the media of "virtual TREASON" for suggesting Iran is doing well militarily.
Contradicting Intelligence Reports
The Times reported on Tuesday that U.S. intelligence shows Iran still has operational access to 30 of its 33 missile sites along the Strait of Hormuz, contradicting Trump's claims of complete dominance. Tapper highlighted that CNN, citing U.S. intelligence in April, reported that roughly half of Iran's missile launchers remain intact, along with thousands of drones. "All of what the Times and CNN have reported is 100% true," Tapper emphasized.
Constitutional Definition of Treason
Tapper pointed out that the Constitution defines treason as levying war against the U.S. or adhering to enemies, giving them aid and comfort. Courts have long required concrete actions with traitorous intent, not reporting facts. "It's deranged for any president to say such a thing — and potentially dangerous for the reporters he's accusing of treason," Tapper warned.
Tapper's Conclusion
Tapper concluded that Trump's real issue is not with the media but with the facts and intelligence reports contradicting his claims. "The president's real issue here is not with us. It is with the facts that we are reporting and with the intelligence reports that contradict his claims. His real issue is the fact that the war isn't over," Tapper said, adding that some journalists remain willing to inform the American public despite Trump's efforts.
