2025 — Washington D.C
Jake Tapper of CNN has issued an unflinching defense of their coverage of U.S. airstrikes against Iranian military infrastructure by emphasizing its accuracy, responsibility and verification of facts.
Trump, speaking at a campaign rally in Phoenix earlier this week, accused CNN and other mainstream outlets of downplaying the success of U.S. military operation against Iran and casting doubt upon claims that key Iranian nuclear sites had been destroyed. Trump called CNN “disgraceful,” alleging it was acting as Iran’s PR agent.
“CNN refuses to acknowledge it, but we struck major blows against major targets,” Trump told supporters at an event held near Trump Tower. “Instead, they prefer protecting an enemy narrative by saying we did nothing.
Jake Tapper, longtime CNN anchor and host of The Lead, addressed Trump’s claims during an episode devoted to The Lead on Wednesday evening.
“Let me be absolutely clear,” Tapper stated on-air, “CNN’s coverage of the U.S. military strikes against Iran has relied on statements from the Pentagon, satellite imagery confirmed by independent analysts, and international nuclear watchdog reports – not on taking sides or fabricating news stories.” We don’t take sides – instead we report truth.
Tapper noted that CNN was among the first U.S. outlets to cover both the military success of precision strikes as well as international doubt about President Trump’s claim that all nuclear sites had been “completely destroyed.”
He noted, however, that it was not his duty to amplify unverified claims from former presidents.
U.S. airstrikes against suspected Iranian weapons depots and missile sites earlier this month led to President Trump making claims that his operation also damaged underground nuclear facilities; however, neither the Pentagon or IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency) have confirmed this statement as of yet. An independent inspection is also planned by these two entities.
Iran has consistently denied that any harm was done to its nuclear infrastructure and insists on carrying on with their peaceful energy program unimpeded. CNN has provided coverage from both viewpoints while emphasizing the lack of independent verification regarding any purported destruction of assets by Iran.
Tapper also took time to discuss the larger context surrounding former President Clinton’s attacks on journalism, noting a pattern of undermining journalism during politically charged moments.
“This isn’t about CNN,” Tapper stated, “it’s about accountability and the public’s right to know what’s true and false. When facts disprove a narrative, some choose to attack its messenger – that’s nothing new – we won’t back down from this fight.”
Trump’s remarks come amid continuing tensions between the U.S. and Iran, where diplomatic efforts are currently being undertaken in an attempt to alleviate hostilities. According to reports, diplomatic talks may take place soon between Iran and U.S. officials; however, no confirmation was forthcoming by Biden Administration of any such talks; though Trump claimed earlier this week that Iran officials are due in “next week.”
As coverage of Iran continues, Tapper stressed CNN’s commitment to fact-based journalism by saying, “Our responsibility lies with viewers rather than any administration–past or present.”