Pentagon Limits Media Access with New Policy

(MENAFN) The Pentagon has released a revised guideline for journalists, warning that correspondents could lose their press passes if they disclose information without authorization.

This revision, initially reported by The Washington Post and Politico, was detailed in a memorandum circulated to media outlets on Friday evening.

From now on, reporters will only be permitted entry to Pentagon grounds if they sign contracts that limit their movements inside the facility and confirm that they will not acquire or possess materials not officially cleared, according to the document referenced by the news organizations.

“DoW remains committed to transparency to promote accountability and public trust,” the memorandum stated, using the acronym for the newly renamed 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 strongly criticized the directive, labeling it “an unacceptable infringement on the independence of the press and a dangerous precedent for access to public institutions.”

In reaction to the criticism, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth wrote 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.”

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