Overview

• A revised policy clarifies credentialed reporters do not have to submit articles for Pentagon approval before publication.
• The department retained escort and badge restrictions inside the building and language allowing credentials to be pulled if a journalist is deemed a security or safety risk, including for soliciting nonpublic information.
• News organizations have one week to review and sign the new terms to maintain access, with refusal risking loss of credentials.
• Hegseth defended the tougher posture on Fox News, saying the Pentagon will use “whatever tools we need” to curb leaks and not ruling out polygraphs, a portrayal disputed by reporters who say roaming without badges was never permitted.
• Press groups and some lawmakers condemned the earlier draft as prior restraint, while the broader crackdown follows earlier workspace shake-ups and tighter hallway access under Hegseth.