CNN battles defamation case over Afghanistan report
CNN is facing a defamation trial over claims aired in November 2021.
These alleged that U.S. Navy veteran Zachary Young exploited Afghans during the chaotic U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan in August 2021.
CNN’s segment featured claims of exorbitant evacuation fees, including $75,000 per vehicle and more than $14,000 per person.
Anonymous sources claimed these charges were unaffordable for most Afghans, intensifying accusations against Young.
Young denies the accusations and says they harmed his reputation and business.
Judge William Henry has ruled that Young did not act illegally or charge Afghans, countering CNN’s portrayal of him as running a “black market” operation.
CNN later issued a partial apology, but the court deemed it insufficient.
The network has defended its reporting, saying it reflected Afghan concerns and claims Young was uncooperative.
Young’s team calls the case a push for media accountability.
If CNN loses, punitive damages could follow, with financial disclosures from parent company Warner Bros. Discovery.
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