FBI Director Kash Patel temporarily halted cooperation with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police this month after the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) reminded journalists of its policy not to label the Sept. 11 attacks as "terrorism" without expert attribution. The extraordinary move risked disrupting joint operations on terrorism and cybersecurity, though other U.S. intelligence-sharing continued. Patel publicly threatened Canada on social media in late August, citing CBC guidance ahead of the 25th anniversary.

CBC, which is editorially independent, reversed its stance on Aug. 28, allowing the term "terrorism" without attribution. Despite the reversal, FBI officials canceled meetings with Canadian counterparts, creating a chill in relations. The pause ended around the anniversary, but officials said it jeopardized the long-standing partnership.

The episode occurred as President Trump escalated pressure on Canada with tariffs and rhetoric toward Prime Minister Mark Carney. The FBI declined to comment; the White House did not respond to inquiries. The RCMP emphasized the value of the bilateral relationship for national security.