US regulator threatens broadcasters over Iran war coverage

The head of the Federal Communications Commission has attacked US news broadcasters and warned they could lose their licences over coverage of the war involving Iran.

FCC chair Brendan Carr accused media outlets of spreading misinformation after US President Donald Trump criticised reports about Iranian strikes damaging US military aircraft in Saudi Arabia.

Writing on the social platform X, Carr warned broadcasters to change their reporting before upcoming licence renewals.

“Broadcasters that are running hoaxes and news distortions - also known as the fake news - have a chance now to correct course before their license renewals come up,” Carr wrote.

“The law is clear,” he added. “Broadcasters must operate in the public interest, and they will lose their licenses if they do not.”