The BBC is facing criticism after being accused of altering remarks made by Pete Hegseth, the U.S. Secretary of Defense, during a speech addressing the escalating conflict with Iran.

Controversy Over Translation

According to reports, the controversy stems from coverage by BBC Persian, which broadcasts to audiences inside Iran. Critics claim the broadcaster translated Hegseth’s remarks in a way that suggested the United States was targeting the Iranian “people.”

However, Hegseth’s original statement reportedly referred specifically to the Iranian “regime”, not the general population. Observers say the change significantly altered the meaning of the message and could influence public perception inside Iran during a sensitive period of conflict.

Political Fallout

The dispute risks reigniting tensions between the BBC and Donald Trump, who has previously clashed with the broadcaster over its coverage.

Last year, Trump launched a $10 billion lawsuit against the BBC after a speech of his was allegedly edited in a way that critics said implied he was encouraging the January 6 United States Capitol attack.

Media Scrutiny Intensifies

The latest controversy comes at a time of heightened scrutiny of international media coverage of the Iran conflict. Analysts say translation accuracy is particularly critical for broadcasters like BBC Persian that communicate directly with audiences inside countries experiencing political tension or war.

Media watchdogs and political commentators have called for clarification from the BBC regarding the translation and editorial process used in the broadcast.

The BBC has not yet issued a detailed public response addressing the specific claims surrounding the translation.