Journalists covering the U.S. military have criticized the Pentagon for reducing press access. They believe these new rules threaten transparency and the public’s right to know what the military is doing.
On Friday night, Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth announced new restrictions. The Pentagon Press Association quickly responded. They said the move was a “direct attack on the freedom of the press and America’s right to know what its military is doing.”
New Rules Tighten Press Entry
Hegseth introduced extra steps for reporters to get credentials. He said the changes aim to protect national security. Now, journalists cannot freely enter key areas of the Pentagon. They must have a government escort at all times.
The Pentagon said even more rules may come soon. Officials explained that these steps are necessary to keep military secrets safe. However, this change continues a trend seen under President Donald Trump’s administration, which often restricted media access.
Former Fox Host Now Restricting Journalists
Before becoming Defence Secretary, Hegseth worked at Fox News. Since joining the Department of Defense, he has removed major news outlets from their dedicated workspaces.
He also criticized journalists, including Fox’s own Jennifer Griffin, who covers national security. At the same time, smaller, pro-Trump outlets received more access.
The Pentagon claimed this is part of a “media rotation program.” But it only favored right-leaning organizations. They also shut down the press briefing room when not used for official briefings.
Few Press Briefings, Limited Info
Sean Parnell, the Pentagon’s chief spokesperson and a close ally of Hegseth, has only held one briefing so far. On Friday, he defended the new limits. He said they were “pragmatic changes to protect operational security.”
A memo from the Pentagon said, “While the department remains committed to transparency, the department is equally obligated to protect (classified intelligence) and sensitive information, the unauthorised disclosure of which could put the lives of US service members in danger.”
Ironically, in March, Hegseth was accused of mishandling sensitive data. He discussed a U.S. military plan for Yemen in a Signal group chat, which accidentally included The Atlantic’s editor-in-chief, Jeffrey Goldberg.
Press Group Says Access is Essential
According to CNN, the Pentagon Press Association warned that the new rules will make it harder for reporters to reach military press officers. These officers are assigned to answer questions and provide information to the public.
The association represents many journalists who report on military issues. In a statement, they said they’ve been trying to contact Hegseth and his team to continue a “professional working relationship that has persisted for decades,” but they’ve had no success.
They added they feel “puzzled” by the Pentagon’s focus on cutting media access instead of continuing open engagement. Past defence leaders kept strong ties with the press.
Hegseth Pushes Conservative Media Approach
Hegseth has often criticized the press. He called them the “hoax press.” He frequently appeared on Fox News shows hosted by his close friends. He also brought in right-wing influencers to support the Defence Department’s image online.
National Press Club Defends Free Coverage
Mike Balsamo, president of the National Press Club, spoke out against the restrictions. He said, “It keeps voters informed, strengthens democratic oversight, and sends a clear message to the world that America stands for openness and accountability.” He also added, “Restricting access doesn’t protect national security. It undermines public trust.”