Pentagon Cracks Down on Journalists: New Policy Threatens Press Credentials Over Unauthorized Access

Pentagon Cracks Down on Journalists with New Policy The Pentagon unveiled a new policy Friday, requiring journalists to pledge not to gather unauthorized information, even if it's unclassified, or risk having their press credentials revoked. The move has sparked concerns about transparency and accountability in the Department of War (DoW). According to a document obtained by The Washington Post, the policy states that DoW "remains committed to transparency to promote accountability and public trust." However, it also emphasizes that information must be approved for release by an appropriate authorizing official before being shared with the public. Possessing confidential or unauthorized information would be grounds for revoking a journalist's press pass. The new policy comes as Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and his staff have been tightening restrictions on Pentagon reporters and limiting direct communication between military personnel and the press. Hegseth has been vocal about his frustration with leaks, which he believes undermine national security. "This is a clear attempt to control the narrative and limit access to information," said Julian Sanchez, a senior fellow at the Cato Institute. "It's a slippery slope when government agencies start dictating what journalists can and cannot report." The policy also raises questions about the role of AI in journalism. With the increasing use of automated tools for data collection and analysis, it's unclear how this new policy will be enforced. "The Pentagon is essentially asking journalists to sign away their ability to do their job," said Sarah Jones, a journalist who has covered national security issues. "It's a chilling effect on transparency and accountability." The DoW's rebranding as the Department of War has also sparked controversy among some critics, who argue it's an attempt to downplay the military's role in foreign policy. The new policy is set to take effect immediately, with journalists required to sign a pledge agreeing not to gather unauthorized information. Those who refuse or are found to be in possession of confidential material will have their press passes revoked. As the Pentagon continues to crack down on journalists, it remains to be seen how this policy will impact transparency and accountability in national security reporting. Background: The Department of War was rebranded as the Department of Defense (DoD) in 1947. However, with the rise of nationalism and militarism in recent years, some critics argue that the name change is an attempt to downplay the military's role in foreign policy. Additional Perspectives: "This policy is a clear overreach by the Pentagon," said Representative Adam Schiff (D-CA), ranking member of the House Intelligence Committee. "It's an attempt to silence journalists and limit public access to information." "The Pentagon has a history of trying to control the narrative, but this policy takes it to a new level," said Glenn Greenwald, co-founder of The Intercept. Current Status: The new policy is set to take effect immediately, with journalists required to sign a pledge agreeing not to gather unauthorized information. Those who refuse or are found to be in possession of confidential material will have their press passes revoked. Next Developments: As the Pentagon continues to crack down on journalists, it remains to be seen how this policy will impact transparency and accountability in national security reporting. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has announced plans to challenge the policy in court, arguing that it violates First Amendment protections for freedom of the press. The implications of this policy are far-reaching, with potential consequences for journalists, whistleblowers, and the public's right to know. As the debate continues, one thing is clear: the Pentagon's new policy marks a significant shift in the relationship between government agencies and the media. *Reporting by News.*