President Trump gave Fox News correspondent Trey Yingst advance notice of imminent U.S. military strikes against Iran, according to the reporter’s account of a direct conversation with the president.
Trump called Yingst from the Situation Room hours before American forces launched attacks targeting Iran’s military infrastructure, the correspondent reported. Yingst, who has been reporting from Israel for Fox News, said the president described the operation before it commenced.
The Military Action
The U.S. strikes targeted Iranian military capabilities, marking a significant escalation in tensions between the two nations. Trump later posted on Truth Social that Iran’s military infrastructure had been severely damaged, claiming much of the country’s naval and air capabilities “doesn’t even exist anymore.”
“Iran’s Military is a complete and total mess,” Trump wrote. He warned that Iranian leaders would “pay the price” for the extended timeline of negotiations.
Trump’s Position on Negotiations
The president stated he will continue military pressure on Iran until the regime agrees to a lasting peace agreement that excludes uranium enrichment. Trump indicated that failed diplomatic efforts preceded the military strikes.
The advance warning to Yingst came after Trump had a contentious exchange with NBC News correspondent Kristen Welker earlier, highlighting differing treatment of news outlets by the administration.
What This Means
The incident underscores the current administration’s approach to press relations and its broader Iran strategy. Trump’s direct communication with a specific news outlet before major military operations raised questions about information access and media relations protocols.
This story has been updated. CNN’s staff contributed to this report.
