Archive · 21 Sep 2025
Pentagon to Restrict Media Access with New Restrictions
The US Defense Department is making new rules for reporters.
Journalists now have to sign a long form before they can report on the Pentagon.
They must promise to only use information the government approves, which means they can't share anything about the military without permission.
Some people, like The New York Times, are worried this might limit what the public knows.
The Pentagon says this is to protect secrets, but others believe a free press is essential.
The US Defense Department requires journalists to sign a 10-page form to access military information.
Journalists must only use pre-approved information to report on the Defense Department or risk losing press credentials.
The policy is part of an updated press credentialing process presented to news organizations this week.
The Pentagon says the restrictions protect classified and controlled unclassified information.
Critics, including The New York Times, argue the restrictions limit press freedom.
- Who
- US Defense Department and Journalists
- What
- New restrictions on journalists' access to Pentagon information.
- When
- Presented to news organizations this week.
- Where
- The Pentagon
- Why
- To protect classified and controlled unclassified information.
Media and Free Press Advocates
Defense Department
Press Freedom
Media and Free Press Advocates
Restrictions are at odds with constitutional protections of a free press.
Defense Department
Restrictions are necessary to protect classified and controlled unclassified information.
- Policy Implemented By
- US Defense Department
- Key Figures
- Sean Parnell (Pentagon Spokesperson), Don Bacon (Republican Representative)
- Restrictions
- Journalists must sign 10-page form and use pre-approved information.
Sources
Pentagon To Require Journalists To Pledge Not To Report Unauthorized Information, Or Face Having Credentials Denied Or Revoked
Pete Hegseth-led Pentagon plans to limit journalists’ access for releasing ‘unauthorised information’
