Defense Secretary Imposes New Restrictions on Press Access to Pentagon

Contact Your Elected Officials

The latest rules are ‘pragmatic changes to protect operational security,’ says a Pentagon spokesperson.

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has ordered the implementation of new restrictions on press access within the Pentagon to better protect sensitive information, the Department of Defense (DOD) said in a May 23 memorandum.

The Defense Department’s highest priority is national security, including the protection of classified national intelligence information (CNSI) and sensitive, unclassified information such as those deemed to be critical for operations security (OPSEC), the memo stated.

“While the Department remains committed to transparency, the Department is equally obligated to protect CNSI and sensitive information—the unauthorized disclosure of which could put the lives of U.S. Service members in danger.”

As such, Hegseth directed that new control measures be put in place for press members who are issued a Pentagon Facilities Alternate Credential (PFAC) card, which provides access to the Pentagon. These rules are “effective immediately.”

Press members are now barred from entry or access to the office spaces of the secretary of defense and the joint staff without first securing official approval, as well as escort personnel. Access to the Pentagon Athletic Center is also prohibited.

Unauthorized, unescorted access in the Pentagon will only be available in certain areas.

If a press member requires access to other areas or offices within the Pentagon to conduct in-person interviews or other engagement, they must be formally escorted to and from these locations by DOD personnel from the respective offices or departments.

Members of the press tasked with covering the Pentagon shall be required to complete an updated briefing over the coming weeks that lays out their responsibilities regarding protecting classified national intelligence information and sensitive details.

A new style of PFAC with a clearer “PRESS” identifier on the badge shall be issued for the press. Additional security measures and enhanced scrutiny on PFAC issuance are also expected.

If any member of the press fails to comply with the new control measures, it will result in “further restrictions and possibly revocation of press credentials,” said the memo.

By Naveen Athrappully

Read Full Article on TheEpochTimes.com

The Epoch Times
The Epoch Timeshttps://www.theepochtimes.com/
Tired of biased news? The Epoch Times is truthful, factual news that other media outlets don't report. No spin. No agenda. Just honest journalism like it used to be.

Kamala, Please Run Again

Kamala Harris hinted she wants to run for President in 2028, despite poor poll numbers and her loss in 2024. If she runs, the big winners will be the GOP.

Rosie O’Donnell vs. Her Therapist

Rosie O’Donnell's therapist attempted to artfully introduce to her client to the possibility that Rosie's outrage might be performative. It didn’t take.

Hamas’s Stubborn Grip on Arms Signals No Desire for Genuine Peace

Hamas’s rhetoric reflects its founding ideology, prioritizing armed resistance over civilian welfare or diplomatic progress.

Off the radar

In the longstanding and brutal ledger of religious persecution, Nigeria now occupies its own grim chapter with its enduring pogrom against Christians.

The New Jackboots? A Wake-Up Call on Antifa and Fascism

An analysis of whether Antifa truly opposes fascism by comparing its tactics and behavior to historical signs and movements of fascist regimes.

USDA Says SNAP Benefits Will Expire for 41 Million People If Shutdown Persists

More than 41 million Americans will go without food stamps next month if Congress does not vote to reopen the government in time.

Newsom Confirms He’s Considering 2028 Presidential Bid

California Gov. Gavin Newsom said he will seriously consider a presidential campaign after the 2026 midterms are over.

‘Showing Up in Droves’—Gen Z Trades Graduation Caps for Hard Hats

The share of Generation Z workers in the construction labor force more than doubled between 2019 and 2023, according to a recent report.

Dallas Doctor Surrenders License After Texas AG Sues for Prescribing Gender Transition Drugs to Minors

Doctor surrendered her medical license following lawsuit by Texas AG Paxton, accusing her of illegally prescribing gender transition drugs to minors.

Trump Hikes Canada’s Tariffs by 10 Percent for Not Pulling Anti-Tariff Ad Immediately

Trump announced he will increase tariffs on Canada by 10% after ad by provincial government of Ontario misrepresented President Reagan’s speech on tariffs.

Trump Rolls Back Emissions Rules on Copper Smelters

President Trump issued a proclamation aimed at reversing a Biden-era environmental rule that enforced stricter air emission standards on copper smelters.

Donor Gives $130 Million to Cover Shortfall in Troop Pay During Shutdown

Trump announced on Oct. 23 that an anonymous donor sent $130M to cover military pay during the ongoing government shutdown.

‘Frustration’ With Canada Led to Trump Scrapping Talks, Not Just Ontario’s Ad: US Official

President Trump cited Ontario’s TV ad as the reason for halting Canada trade talks, but officials say it stems from rising U.S. frustration with Ottawa.
spot_img

Related Articles

Popular Categories

MAGA Business Central