URGENT UPDATE: The Pentagon is facing intense scrutiny after it restricted access to crucial press briefings, allowing only a select group of newly credentialed media outlets. This decision, announced by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, comes as lawmakers probe U.S. military operations targeting suspected drug traffickers in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific, raising public controversy.
The Pentagon’s move has sparked widespread concern, particularly as the nation questions transparency at a time of significant military actions. The Associated Press reports that the briefings are part of a new onboarding process for a revamped Pentagon press corps, primarily composed of conservative outlets willing to adhere to strict new guidelines. Pentagon press secretary Kingsley Wilson is set to address reporters on Tuesday, followed by Hegseth on Wednesday.
Major news organizations, including CNN, Reuters, and The Washington Post, confirmed their requests for access were denied. Critics assert that the new operational rules effectively silence dissenting voices, requiring media to report only what the Pentagon authorizes.
Pentagon officials have claimed these guidelines are “common sense” measures designed to prevent the dissemination of classified information. However, journalists argue that this undermines their ability to inform the public. Marc Lavine, North America regional director for Agence France-Presse, emphasized, “Denying access to credible and nonpartisan news media is not conducive to transparency for the American public, who fund the department’s budget.”
In a troubling backdrop, allegations have emerged that Hegseth ordered a second strike on a vessel carrying suspected smugglers last September, as a follow-up to a prior attack that did not eliminate all passengers. President Donald Trump has publicly defended Hegseth, who denies the allegations—claims that could amount to a war crime if proven true.
The current climate at the Pentagon has drastically shifted during Trump’s administration. Briefings have become irregular, contrasting sharply with the frequency of earlier administrations. It remains uncertain whether future briefings will continue under these restrictive conditions or if they will be accessible to the public. Reports indicate that live-stream access was not available for the current sessions.
Newly credentialed journalists, including Trump ally Laura Loomer and former Representative Matt Gaetz, have begun sharing their experiences online, showcasing their official badges. Loomer posted a picture from a Washington Post desk, declaring it “now mine!” This drew a sardonic response from The Washington Post reporter Dan Lamothe, who remarked on the desk’s likely emptiness.
Other outlets have expressed anticipation, with One America News (OAN) confirming that reporter Alexandra Ingersoll is expected to broadcast from the Pentagon following an interview with Hegseth aired on November 20, 2023. The president of OAN, Charles Herring, noted the importance of consistent standards for media access.
As this situation develops, all eyes are on the Pentagon’s next moves. Will it continue to restrict access and limit voices, or will it shift towards greater transparency? As journalists strive to uncover the truth, the implications of these briefings extend far beyond the walls of the Pentagon, impacting public trust and accountability in government operations. Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds.
