Overview

• A Sept. 19 memo launches phased issuance of new Pentagon Facility Alternate Credentials marked with prominent 'PRESS' labels, prioritizing resident media through Sept. 30 and non‑resident media beginning Oct. 1.
• Journalists must sign in-brief documents and acknowledge that Department information requires approval for public release even if unclassified, with a pledge not to use unauthorized material.
• Unescorted movement is curtailed, with escorts required outside designated areas and staff instructed to redirect any media found without escorts in restricted zones.
• Credentials can be denied, revoked, or not renewed for broad violations including 'unprofessional conduct' that disrupts operations or attempts to obtain classified national security information or controlled unclassified information.
• Officials describe the policy as aligning with security practices at other military installations, as press organizations review the directive and raise concerns about its impact on independent reporting.