Trump Downplays Iran's Role in Minnesota Cyberattack Controversy

WHO:

NBC News - President Trump, Minnesota’s Democratic Governor Tim Walz, FBI

Alternet - President Trump, CNN cybersecurity reporter Sean Lyngaas, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth

WHAT:

NBC News - The FBI is investigating possible ties between Iran and cyberattacks on water systems in Minnesota and at least six other states.

NBC News - President Trump denied Iran was responsible for the cyberattacks and blamed Governor Tim Walz instead.

Alternet - Trump stated, “I think Minnesota is behind it. You know who's behind it? Minnesota, because they're grossly incompetent.”

Alternet - Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth claimed the war has cost $37.5 billion, while a Telegraph analysis estimated the cost at $151.3 billion.

WHERE:

NBC News - Minnesota, United States

WHY:

Alternet - Trump is accused of attempting to shift blame for the cyberattacks onto the state government and Democrats.

Alternet - Lyngaas indicated that the geopolitical environment makes Iran a likely suspect in the cyberattacks.

HOW:

Alternet - Lyngaas noted that the federal government has been undermined in its strength against cyberattacks due to cuts made during Trump’s administration.

(UPDATED July 31, 2026 22:27 UTC)

The FBI is currently investigating potential connections between Iran and cyberattacks targeting water systems in Minnesota and several other states. President Trump has denied any Iranian involvement, instead blaming Minnesota's Democratic Governor Tim Walz, stating, “I think Minnesota is behind it. You know who's behind it? Minnesota, because they're grossly incompetent.” Meanwhile, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth reported that the ongoing war has cost the U.S. $37.5 billion, contrasting with a Telegraph analysis that estimates the total cost at $151.3 billion.