Trump blames Walz for water hacks; officials suspect Iran

President Donald Trump has blamed Minnesota Governor Tim Walz for cyberattacks on the state's water systems, despite federal agencies indicating Iran is likely responsible. At least 30 water systems in Minnesota were targeted, and the FBI, EPA, and CISA have warned of attacks in at least seven states, with Iranian hackers known to target such infrastructure. Trump, speaking at a Cabinet meeting at Camp David, said, "I think that Minnesota is behind it... I think the governor is behind it. I don't think there was an Iranian cyberattack." He offered no evidence, and the White House referred to his comments when asked for support. Source: AP News

The reaction

Walz responded on X, stating that Trump "knows exactly who is responsible" and that other states were also hit. He also blamed the Department of Government Efficiency for cutting CISA, leaving the U.S. "exposed to cyber attacks." Source: CNN Trump has previously clashed with Walz over immigration enforcement, even threatening to invoke the Insurrection Act. Source: The Verge

The evidence

• Federal agencies have not officially named Iran, but a joint advisory noted Iranian hackers targeting water systems. Source: AP News
• Former FBI cyber official Cynthia Kaiser said, "I think most credible researchers and responders would be right to treat it like it’s Iran until proven otherwise." Source: AP News
• The attacks occurred as the FBI warned of spreading cyberattacks on American infrastructure. Source: The Verge

What's next

Authorities continue to investigate the source. Trump's claims have been widely fact-checked as baseless, with no evidence linking Walz or Minnesota to the attacks. Source: CNN