March 18, 2026
The International Press Institute (IPI) has condemned what it described as threats by the administration of former U.S. President Donald Trump to revoke broadcasting licences over media coverage of the U.S.–Israeli war involving Iran.
In a statement, the organisation said comments by Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Brendan Carr, which were supported by Trump, raised serious concerns about press freedom and free speech in the United States.
The controversy stems from a March 14 post on social media platform X, in which Carr criticised broadcasters over their reporting on the conflict and warned them to “correct course before their licence renewals come up.” The post followed remarks by Trump on his Truth Social platform, where he criticised coverage of the war and described some reports as misleading.
Trump also praised Carr’s stance in a subsequent post, targeting certain media organisations over their reporting on alleged Iranian strikes affecting U.S. military assets.
IPI said such statements could undermine constitutional protections, including the First Amendment, which guarantees freedom of speech and of the press. The group also pointed to a January 2025 executive order signed by Trump, which prohibits government actions that could restrict free expression.
“This administration’s threats against American broadcasters demonstrate a disregard for constitutional protections on free expression,” IPI Executive Director Scott Griffen said. He stressed that journalists must be able to report independently without fear of retaliation.
The organisation further warned that even the suggestion of regulatory action could have a “chilling effect” on the media, discouraging critical reporting.
The FCC, however, has limited authority over news organisations. It regulates local broadcast stations but does not license national networks or oversee print and online media. It is also barred by law from censoring news content, with broadcasters retaining responsibility for editorial decisions.
Legal experts have said any attempt to revoke licences based on news coverage would likely face constitutional challenges.
IPI also expressed concern over broader efforts it said were aimed at reshaping the U.S. media landscape through regulatory and legal measures. It noted that recent FCC actions, including reopening past investigations into major broadcasters, had already raised bipartisan concerns.
While no formal penalties have been announced, the institute said the possibility of regulatory scrutiny may pressure media organisations to alter or limit their coverage.
IPI called on U.S. authorities to uphold constitutional guarantees and ensure that journalists can operate without interference.
