The Pentagon has enforced new restrictions on journalists, mandating that they must agree to not disclose unauthorized information or face a potential loss of access to the building. These new limitations also seek to impose restrictions on the movement of journalists within the facility, which houses the Department of War (previously known as the Department of Defense). This decision comes following a series of recent leaks. Pete Hegseth, the newly appointed Secretary of War, stated on social media, “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.”
In a briefing note sent to members of the press, the Pentagon outlined these new restrictions, which they will be required to sign in order to maintain their Pentagon press credentials. The department stated their commitment to transparency and accountability but also emphasized that any information released by the Department of War must be approved by an authorized officer before it is made public. Signatories must acknowledge that press credentials for the building may be revoked based on unauthorized access, attempted unauthorized access, or unauthorized disclosure of classified information or information designated as controlled unclassified.
Chief Pentagon Spokesman Sean Parnell stated that these guidelines are in line with those at other military bases across the country and are intended to protect sensitive information and national security. Despite this, Hegseth has faced scrutiny for his own handling of sensitive information after sharing details about the bombing of Yemen on a group chat that included a reporter.
The new restrictions come in response to recent leaks, including one that contradicted the administration’s statements about the damage caused by US strikes on Iran’s nuclear program.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cwywwjevprwo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss
