Overview

• A Sept. 18 directive states Department of War information must be approved by an authorizing official before public release, even when unclassified.
• The memo warns Pentagon press credentials may be denied, revoked, or not renewed for unauthorized disclosure of such information.
• On Sept. 25, Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered roughly 800 senior military officials to a short‑notice gathering at a Virginia Marine Corps base, where a spokesman said he will address them.
• Chief Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell wrote that the policy does not impose restrictions on journalistic activities and acknowledges First Amendment rights.
• Press groups, columnists, and some lawmakers criticize the rules as censorship or prior restraint, with Rep. Don Bacon voicing opposition and major outlets indicating they will work together to seek changes, following earlier cutbacks to desks, movement, and briefing‑room access at the Pentagon.