Updated policy for reporters limiting “unauthorized” revelations have sparked outrage from journalists’ groups
The Pentagon has issued a policy update for the media that contains a warning that reporters could be stripped of press credentials for making unauthorized disclosures. The update, first reported by The Washington Post and Politico, is outlined in a memo sent to media organizations on Friday evening.
Journalists will henceforth only be allowed access to the Pentagon premises if they sign agreements restricting their movement in the building and stipulating that they will not obtain and do not possess unapproved materials, according to the document cited by the news outlets.
“DoW remains committed to transparency to promote accountability and public trust,” the memo reads, using the abbreviation for the newly rebranded Department of War. “However, DoW information must be approved for public release by an appropriate authorizing official before it is released, even if it is unclassified.”
The National Press Club condemned the policy, calling it “an unacceptable infringement on the independence of the press and a dangerous precedent for access to public institutions.”
Responding to the backlash, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said in a post on X: “The press does not run the Pentagon – the people do. The press is no longer allowed to roam the halls of a secure facility. Wear a badge and follow the rules or go home.”
The Pentagon recently took several steps to limit direct communication between military personnel and the press. The measures are part of a broader effort to crack down on information leaks.
In April, the Washington Post reported, citing unnamed sources, that Pentagon employees were subjected to FBI polygraph tests in an attempt to identify leakers. Furthermore, Attorney General Pam Bondi announced that federal authorities may once again seek access to journalists’ phone records and require them to testify as part of investigations into unauthorized disclosures.
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