The Pentagon released new restrictions on the media’s presence in the building, requesting that journalists refrain from publishing information without federal approval to protect national security.
The 17-page memo explained that the Department of War “remains committed to transparency to promote accountability and public trust. However, DoW information must be approved for public release by an appropriate authorizing official before it is released, even if it is unclassified.”
“The Department of War must safeguard classified national security information (CNSI), in accordance with Executive Order 13526 and the Atomic Energy Act, and information designated as controlled unclassified information (CUI), in accordance with Executive Order 13556,” the document says. “Only authorized persons who have received favorable determinations of eligibility for access, signed approved non-disclosure agreements, and have a need-to-know may be granted access to CNSI. DoW may only provide CUI to individuals when there is a lawful governmental purpose for doing so. Unauthorized disclosure of CNSI or CUI poses a security risk that could damage the national security of the United States and place DoW personnel in jeopardy.”
Failure to abide by the policy “may result in suspension or revocation of your building pass and loss of access,” it states.
Mike Balsamo, the President of the National Press Club, called the move a “direct assault” on journalism.
“If the news about our military must first be approved by the government, then the public is no longer getting independent reporting. It is getting only what officials want them to see. That should alarm every American,” he asserted.
Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said, as per The Hill, that the guidelines “[reaffirm] the standards that are already in line with every other military base in the country.” He noted that the policies “are basic, common-sense guidelines to protect sensitive information as well as the protection of national security and the safety of all who work at the Pentagon.”
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth explained that the policy ensures that the “press is no longer allowed to roam the halls of a secure facility. Wear a badge and follow the rules — or go home.”
