Pentagon can restrict journalists' access, make them be escorted for now: Court
Summary
A federal appeals court ruled that the Pentagon can require journalists to be escorted inside its building while a legal case about press access continues. This decision follows a previous judge’s order that had challenged the Pentagon’s rules for reporters, aiming to protect national security.Key Facts
- The appeals court panel ruled 2-1 in favor of the Pentagon’s request to keep reporters escorted inside the building for now.
- The Pentagon started new rules in September 2025 requiring reporters to sign agreements about access risks and possible revocation if they pose security concerns.
- The Pentagon argued that unescorted access by reporters led to leaks of sensitive or classified information.
- The court said the escort requirement is important for protecting national security.
- The judges also recognized that these restrictions could affect how the press gathers news and the public’s right to information.
- A Pentagon spokesman said the policy aims to protect classified information, not to limit journalism.
- The ruling split the judges, with two supporting the Pentagon and one dissenting, believing the Pentagon was trying to avoid the earlier court order.
- Reporters still have access to Pentagon briefings, press conferences, and interviews with valid credentials.
Read the Full Article
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.