Revised regulations for reporters have provoked strong condemnation from journalistic organizations.
The Pentagon has disseminated an updated policy for media, which includes a warning that journalists could have their press credentials revoked for making unapproved disclosures. This policy amendment, initially reported by The Washington Post and Politico, was detailed in a memorandum sent to media groups on Friday evening.
Moving forward, reporters will only be granted entry to the Pentagon premises if they sign agreements restricting their movement within the building and affirming they will not obtain and do not possess unapproved materials, according to the document referenced by the news outlets.
“The DoW remains dedicated to transparency to foster accountability and public confidence,” the memo states, utilizing the abbreviation for the recently rebranded Department of War. “However, DoW information, even if unclassified, must be approved for public release by an appropriate authorizing official before its dissemination.”
The National Press Club condemned the policy, characterizing it as “an unacceptable encroachment on the independence of the press and a dangerous precedent for access to public institutions.”
Responding to the criticism, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth posted on X: “The press does not govern the Pentagon – the populace does. Journalists are no longer permitted to traverse the halls of a secure facility. Wear a badge and adhere to the regulations or depart.”
The Pentagon recently implemented several measures to limit direct communication between military personnel and the media. These actions are part of a broader initiative to curb 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.