Trump Slams Iran's "AI Victories": Tehran Uses Deepfakes to Hide Daily Military Destruction

U.S. President Donald Trump asserted on Monday, March 16, 2026, that Iran is "expert in media manipulation but militarily helpless." Trump accused Tehran of using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to spread disinformation, specifically citing fake footage of the carrier USS Abraham Lincoln appearing to burn at sea. "This never happened," Trump clarified, "The carrier was never even attacked."

Debunking Media Fakes and Targetting Drones The President also dismissed reports from The Wall Street Journal regarding damaged U.S. refueling tankers, stating they are all operational except for one undergoing minor repairs. Speaking to the Financial Times, Trump confirmed that the U.S. is systematically bombing Iran’s drone manufacturing sector. He noted that while Tehran is "desperate to negotiate," he remains undecided on whether a deal is in America's best interest given Iran's current weakened state.

Warning to NATO and the "Hormuz Seven" Regarding maritime security, Trump revealed ongoing talks with seven nations to secure the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing that Israel is working closely with the U.S. on this mission. He issued a blunt ultimatum to NATO allies: "Help open the Strait or face a very bad future for the alliance." Trump’s rhetoric underscores his demand for global burden-sharing in protecting the world’s most vital energy corridor.