New Pentagon Press Guidelines Could Restrict Media Access Amid Information Leaks

Fri Sep 26 2025 14:32:03 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

The Pentagon introduces stricter rules for journalists, including loss of access for unauthorized information disclosure amid recent leaks, leading to reflections on transparency and national security.

In a significant shift, the Pentagon has released new guidelines for media access, demanding that journalists not disclose unauthorized information or face revocation of their access. This policy aims to curb the rising concerns over leaks but raises questions about transparency and the role of press freedom in monitoring military activities. Critics argue the measures may inhibit journalistic freedom just as the Pentagon reiterates its commitment to transparency.

The Pentagon has told journalists they must agree not to disclose unauthorized information or else risk losing access to the building.

The change is among a number of new restrictions, which also seek to impose limits on the movement of journalists within the facility, which is home to the Department of War, formerly known as the Department of Defense.

This follows a series of leaks in recent months.

Pete Hegseth, who was recently appointed as Secretary of War, emphasized 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.

The new restrictions were outlined in a briefing note sent to members of the press, which they must sign to maintain their Pentagon press credentials.

The department stated its commitment to transparency to promote accountability and public trust, but added that DoW information must be approved for public release by an appropriate authorising official before it is released, even if it is unclassified.

It also asked signatories to acknowledge that determinations on press credentials for the building may be based on unauthorized access, attempted unauthorized access, or unauthorized disclosure of classified national security information, or information designated as controlled unclassified information.

Chief Pentagon Spokesman Sean Parnell remarked that the guidelines reaffirm standards in line with those at all military bases, asserting they are basic, common-sense guidelines to protect sensitive information and national security.

Hegseth's own handling of sensitive information has been scrutinized, particularly when he reportedly shared specifics about a bombing in Yemen with a journalist in a group chat.

The reaction from the administration has been hostile after a leaked intelligence report appeared to contradict their statements regarding damage caused by US strikes on Iran's nuclear program.