We are calling on Congress and the U.S. Department of Justice to protect journalists from being threatened with jail for doing their jobs.

Recently, President Trump said his administration would force a journalist to reveal their source after reporting on a U.S. military rescue in Iran. He warned that if the source is not revealed, the journalist or media company could face jail time.

This crosses a line.

Journalists are essential to keeping the public informed, especially during times of conflict. Reporting on war and government decisions is not a crime. It is how people understand what is being done in their name.

When journalists are threatened for protecting sources, it creates fear. It discourages whistleblowers. It limits what the public is allowed to know.

National security matters. But it should not be used to silence reporting or punish the press.

We can protect both security and transparency without forcing journalists to choose between doing their job and going to jail.

We urge Congress and the Department of Justice to act now to protect press freedom and ensure journalists can report without fear of retaliation.

A free press is essential to a free country.

Sign this petition to defend the right to report the truth.