U.S. President Donald Trump lashed out at CNN during a tense exchange aboard Air Force One, dismissing a reporter’s question on whether Iran takes U.S. threats seriously as “stupid” and branding the network “fake.” The confrontation unfolded as tensions with Tehran escalated following deadly protests inside Iran and renewed warnings targeting U.S. bases. When pressed on the credibility of American deterrence, Trump abruptly shut down the line of questioning, repeating his dismissal while pointing to years of U.S. pressure under his leadership. WATCH 

Iran enters week two of nationwide anti-government protests, with demonstrators facing heightened security measures and threats of severe legal repercussions, including the death penalty. The unrest, described as the largest protests in years, has drawn international attention as President Trump and U.S. officials are reportedly briefed on military options. Iranian authorities have labeled protesters as ‘enemies of God’, with the Attorney General warning of harsh punishments under Iranian law. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei has blamed acts of urban damage on sabotage, alleging links to U.S. interference and oil interests and accused Washington of encirclement strategies in Latin America. WATCH