Overview
- On March 13, the White House issued a release accusing CNN of lying about claims that Pentagon and NSC planners failed to anticipate Iran closing the Strait of Hormuz.
- Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth publicly rejected the CNN report, while Communications Director Steven Cheung attacked the network on social media.
- Senators Tom Cotton and Tim Sheehy, who were briefed by officials, said reports that planners lacked preparation were false and that such contingencies have been considered for years.
- CNN updated its story to note that officials briefed lawmakers on long-standing plans for a major disruption to the strait, while multiple sources said there were no near-term solutions.
- The dispute unfolds during ongoing U.S. strikes under Operation Epic Fury, with related coverage citing shipping disruptions and higher oil prices.