FBI Conducts Search at Home of Washington Post Journalist Amid Defense Document Leak Investigation

The FBI carried out a search warrant early Wednesday at the residence of journalist Hannah Natanson, who works for the Washington Post, in Virginia.

This search is part of a wide-ranging criminal investigation concerning the leak of classified documents related to national defense. Several electronic devices, including phones and laptops, were seized during the operation.

Authorities have stated that Natanson is not a direct target of the investigation. The focus is on Aurelio Perez Lugones, a government contractor at the U.S. Department of Defense, who is alleged to have unlawfully retained classified intelligence reports at his residence and in his vehicle.

U.S. Attorney Pamela Bondi confirmed that the search was conducted at the request of the Department of Defense. She emphasized that the Trump administration is committed to preventing any unlawful leaks of classified information, viewing them as a significant threat to national security.

The Washington Post condemned the raid as a harmful and aggressive act against press freedom, while human rights advocates expressed concern that searching journalists' homes sets a troubling precedent that could hinder the press's ability to investigate and report the truth.

Natanson is recognized for her extensive reporting on federal agency activities, which has led to increased scrutiny regarding her safety in recent times.