Original Source
Pentagon Revises Press Access Rules, Drawing Ire from Press Groups
Pentagon Strengthens Press Access Regulations
The U.S. Department of Defense announced a new media policy just three days after a federal judge ruled that Trump administration restrictions on Pentagon journalists violated the First Amendment. The Defense Department stated it is complying with the ruling in The New York Times lawsuit case, but press groups have accused the administration of imposing fresh restrictions on journalists. Chief Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell stated that the Defense Department disagrees with the decision and is pursuing an appeal.
Correspondents' Corridor Closed, Escorted Access Mandatory
Under the revised policy, the "Correspondents' Corridor" is immediately closed. Parnell explained that the Defense Department determined that "unescorted access to the Pentagon cannot be responsibly maintained without the ability to screen credential holders for security risks." A new press workspace will be established in an annex facility outside the Pentagon. Additionally, all journalists will now require an "escort by authorized Department personnel" to access the Pentagon. However, credential holders will still have access for scheduled press briefings, press conferences, and interviews arranged through public affairs offices.
Press Groups Criticize 'Violation of Press Freedom'
The Pentagon Press Association criticized the new rules as a "clear violation of the letter and spirit" of the court ruling and is consulting with legal counsel. The National Press Club noted that at a time when the U.S. "is engaged in active military conflict," the public depends on journalists being able to observe, report, and ask questions freely. They added that eliminating the Correspondents' Corridor and requiring escorted access would sharply limit how journalists gather news, build sources, and cover one of the most powerful institutions in government, reducing public understanding of decisions made in its name.
*Source: Axios (2026-03-24)*
