Five major US television networks have suspended pooled coverage of White House events in protest against the Trump administration’s decision to revoke access for CNN, Politico and MS NOW.

ABC, CBS, CNN, Fox and NBC said no administration should restrict a news organisation because of its reporting, stressing the public’s right to independent information about government.

The three affected outlets have sued the administration, describing the restrictions as a violation of First Amendment protections for freedom of speech and the press.

President Donald Trump, who accused the outlets of publishing “fiction and lies,” defended the restrictions, describing the media as “fake news” and a threat to national security.

The dispute has disrupted live television coverage of White House events, including the opening of Trump’s new South Lawn helipad, while potentially affecting coverage of his meetings with foreign leaders during the United Nations General Assembly.

A US district judge is expected to hear the media organisations’ lawsuit on Wednesday.