Journalist Max Blumenthal Says US Border Agents Detained him After Iran Trip

American Journalist Max Blumenthal says he was detained and questioned by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) upon arriving at Washington Dulles International Airport after returning from Iran. Blumenthal said officers searched his luggage and confiscated his smartphones and laptop after he declined to unlock the devices for inspection.

Blumenthal alleged that the questioning and seizure of his devices were politically motivated and linked to his reporting from Iran. In a statement, he said he was subjected to “political harassment” because of his journalism and claimed the confiscation was intended to discourage him and others from continuing to report critically on US administration.

According to Blumenthal, CBP officers repeatedly questioned him about his future travel plans, including whether he intended to return to Tehran for further reporting. U.S. Customs and Border Protection has not publicly responded to Blumenthal’s allegations.

International Journalist Organizations have shown a deep concern over the incident and are organizing protests to expose the real face of US administration which is against “Freedom of Speech”. The American Independent journalist says It is the violation of constitution and journalistic norms in US. Debate sparked over Social Media forums to support the Journalist and show the truth about recent US administration which is even against US citizens.