Why it matters:
The standoff marks one of the most significant clashes between the Pentagon and the press in years, raising concerns over transparency in covering the U.S. military and its decision-making processes.
The big picture:
Under the new policy, reporters must acknowledge rules allowing the War Department to revoke credentials if journalists are deemed “security risks” or if they ask officials about classified, or even certain unclassified information. News outlets say the rules threaten the fundamental role of the press in holding the military accountable.
What they’re saying:
Joint statement by major U.S. networks:
“The Pentagon’s new requirements would restrict journalists’ ability to keep the public informed. The policy is without precedent and threatens core journalistic protections.”
Sean Parnell, Pentagon spokesperson:
“The policy doesn’t ask them to agree, only to acknowledge it. Reporters are having a meltdown online, but we stand by our policy because it protects national security.”
U.S. President Donald Trump:
“Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth finds the press disruptive to world peace and maybe to our national security.”
U.S. War Secretary Pete Hegseth:
“These requirements are common sense. We’re making sure national security is respected.”
Key points:
- Over 30 U.S. media outlets, including all five major broadcast networks, refused to sign the new rules.
- The Tuesday deadline required organizations to either comply or surrender Pentagon press badges by Wednesday.
- The Pentagon says the policy aims to “protect troops and national security.”
- Journalists argue it undermines the First Amendment and independent oversight of the military.
Go deeper:
The move aligns with broader efforts by the Trump administration to limit media access and control narratives around defense and foreign policy.
Hossein Vaez - seyed mohammad kazemi
