Pentagon Officials Mock Hegseth's Plan to Silence War Department Leaks, Citing Egregious Assault on Press Freedom
In a move that has sparked widespread criticism from experts and current Pentagon officials, the US Department of War unveiled a contentious new policy aimed at restricting press freedom. According to a 17-page document obtained by The Intercept, the proposed rules would bar reporters from gathering unapproved information and could have their credentials revoked if they fail to comply.
Three current Pentagon officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity, ridiculed the plan, calling it an "egregious assault" on journalistic independence. "This is a clear attempt to silence the press and control the narrative," one official said. "It's a step in the wrong direction for transparency and accountability."
The policy, which was reportedly designed by Pete Hegseth, a former Pentagon spokesperson, would require journalists to sign agreements restricting their movement within the building and stipulating that they will not obtain or possess unauthorized material. According to The Intercept, the document claims that the Department of War remains committed to transparency, but experts say it is a thinly veiled attempt to restrict press freedom.
"This policy is reminiscent of authoritarian measures seen in some of the world's most repressive nations," said Steven Aftergood, a senior fellow at the Federation of American Scientists. "It's a clear attempt to exert control over the media and suppress information that might be embarrassing or inconvenient for the government."
The proposed rules have sparked fears for the future of press freedom in the US, with many experts warning that they could set a dangerous precedent for other government agencies. "This is a slippery slope," said Aftergood. "If the Pentagon can restrict press freedom, what's to stop other agencies from doing the same?"
According to The Intercept, the policy was unveiled on September 15, 2025, and has been met with widespread criticism from experts and current Pentagon officials. While the Department of War claims that it remains committed to transparency, many are skeptical.
As the debate over press freedom continues, it remains to be seen whether the proposed rules will be implemented. However, one thing is clear: the move has sparked a heated discussion about the role of the media in holding those in power accountable.
In response to criticism, a Pentagon spokesperson said that the department is committed to transparency and accountability, but declined to comment further on the proposed policy. The fate of the plan remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the future of press freedom in the US hangs in the balance.
Sources:
The Intercept: "Unnamed Pentagon Officials Ridicule Hegseth’s Plan to Stop War Department Leaks"
The Intercept: "Pentagon Officials Mock Hegseth's Plan to Silence War Department Leaks"
This story was compiled from reports by The Intercept and The Intercept.
