Trump accuses CNN of spreading ‘fake news’ over Iran-US ceasefire report

United States President, Donald Trump, has criticised CNN over what he described as a “false statement” attributed to Iran regarding the recent ceasefire agreement between both countries.

The ceasefire deal was announced just hours before Trump’s earlier deadline threatening decisive action against Iran.

CNN had reported that Iran’s Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) claimed the country recorded a “historic and crushing defeat” against its adversary, suggesting that the United States was compelled to accept a 10-point plan proposed by Iran.

Reacting via a post on Truth Social, Trump dismissed the report as fraudulent, alleging that the statement originated from a “fake news site” in Nigeria before being picked up by CNN and presented as credible.

He, however, did not name the Nigerian outlet involved or provide evidence to support his claim.

In a separate post, Trump described the source as a “new, trouble-making site” and urged CNN to retract the report. He also hinted at possible investigations into whether the publication of the statement constituted a legal offence.

Meanwhile, Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, issued remarks following the ceasefire, appreciating Pakistan for its role in mediating the agreement.

He stated that Iran would halt its defensive operations if attacks against the country ceased, adding that safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz would be guaranteed for two weeks under coordinated arrangements with Iran’s armed forces.

Araghchi noted that his comments were made on behalf of the SNSC, Iran’s top security body responsible for safeguarding national interests and overseeing matters related to the country’s Islamic system.

Separately, Iran’s Tasnim news agency published a statement credited to the SNSC, echoing sentiments similar to those reported earlier, including claims of a significant victory over the United States.

In the United States, Brendan Carr, chairman of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), warned that broadcasters risk losing their licences if they fail to uphold the public interest.

CNN, however, defended its report, maintaining that the statement was sourced from Iranian officials and corroborated by multiple state-affiliated media outlets.