A defamation trial involving CNN and Navy veteran Zachary Young has taken a dramatic turn, with the presiding judge demanding an apology from CNN's lead counsel, David Axelrod, for accusing Young of lying. The case stems from a 2021 CNN segment that Young claims falsely portrayed him as profiting illegally from assisting Afghans fleeing the country during the U.S. military withdrawal.

Judge William Henry reprimanded Axelrod for his repeated use of the word "liar" and ordered him to apologize to Young. Axelrod initially offered what the judge deemed an insufficient apology, prompting a more formal statement regarding Young's deposition testimony about a security clearance agreement. However, Young did not accept the apology.

Young contends that CNN's reporting damaged his reputation and business by depicting him as exploiting vulnerable Afghans. The judge imposed fines on both legal teams for personal insults exchanged during the proceedings, increasing the penalty to $1,000 for future occurrences. The funds are designated for North Florida Legal Services.

The courtroom tension escalated further when Axelrod addressed Judge Henry as "Mr. Henry," which the judge considered a potential insult. Axelrod attributed the slip-up to a long day and apologized. Judge Henry's statement that Axelrod had "zero credibility" with him has drawn attention and commentary, with some legal analysts suggesting it signifies significant challenges for CNN's defense.

The trial continues to unfold, with live streaming available for public viewing.