Particle.news
Download on the App Store
43 ARTICLES
·
last wk.

Major U.S. Outlets Vacate Pentagon as New Access Rules Take Effect

Reporters left after the Pentagon required them to acknowledge rules that classify routine sourcing as a potential security risk.

Image
QUANTICO, VIRGINIA - SEPTEMBER 30: U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth speaks to senior military leaders at Marine Corps Base Quantico on September 30, 2025 in Quantico, Virginia. In an unprecedented gathering, almost 800 generals, admirals and their senior enlisted leaders have been ordered into one location from around the world on short notice. (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)
Image

Overview

  • More than 30 U.S. news organizations — including AP, Reuters, the major broadcast networks and Fox News — refused to sign and surrendered in-building credentials by Wednesday’s 4 p.m. deadline.
  • The 21-page policy conditions access on acknowledging restrictions that allow officials to deem reporters security risks for soliciting nonpublic information and to revoke badges.
  • Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell defended the policy as a simple acknowledgment of rules, and President Trump publicly backed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s approach.
  • Only about 15 credentialed reporters remain, led by One America News and a mix of freelancers and foreign outlets, leaving no major U.S. newsroom with a permanent presence inside.
  • The Pentagon Press Association and dozens of outlets called the rules unprecedented and chilling, pledged robust coverage from outside the building, and Pentagon officials anticipate legal challenges.