Sorry, I guess I misunderstood when he was said to be a "US based reporter"? Are you saying the incidents are alike???
You have probably spent more time in the sandbox, than anyone else here, so I am sincerely interested in your take, on both events?
One was a US citizen, and one was a military General and sworn enemy, what's the connection? You are comparing Apples to Artichokes....
EDIT... Granted the MO was the same but the individuals and circumstances hardly similar....