Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth implemented strict press sanctions in Pentagon, requiring government escorts for journalists in already accessible areas.In an important policy change announced late Friday night, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth implemented strict press sanctions in Pentagon, requiring government escorts for journalists in already accessible areas.New measures affect the spaces, including their offices, service branch press offices and areas occupied by top military officers.Hegseth’s clear approval and Staff escort now require access to the office of General Dan Kane, Chairman of the Joint Head and other senior military leadership places. It departs from military leadership and journalists historically open relations.Hegseth, who had previously worked in Fox News Channel, issued an order and posted a holiday on the X post, citing national security concerns. He said, “While the department is committed to transparency, the department is bound to protect equally (classified intelligence information) and sensitive information, in which unauthorized disclosure can endanger the lives of American service members.”The Pentagon Press Association challenged this justification, seen it as an attack on press freedom. He issued a statement on Friday night that expressed serious concerns about restricting the movement of journalists in non-protected, undue sectors.Additional measures include sensitive information and compulsory forms for protecting the new press identity badge. The recent security violations, including a planned Elon Musk briefing and a contingent signal chat of Atlantic, made leaked information before these changes.The Trump administration has taken several measures affecting the access of the press, including the FCC investigation in the major network and legal disputes with the associated press. Despite the increased access to the conservative media, Trump has consistently maintained press interactions.Hegseth’s tenure has seen a limited press engagement with only one Pentagon briefing from January 20. The administration has also reduced the presence of media by removing office space from major news organizations including New York Times, Washington Post, CNN and NBC.
