United States of America - September 2025

On 19 September, the Department of Defense announced a series of restrictions on journalists covering the Pentagon, arguing security risks. These included a requirement that officials approve journalists’ reporting, even if regarding unclassified information. Credentials and access to the Department of Defense’s headquarters would be revoked for those not in compliance. In the months leading to the announcement, some restrictive measures were implemented, such as the requirement that journalists be accompanied by an escort in some Pentagon locations, a departure from previous practice. On 15 October, ahead of the deadline to sign a pledge regarding the observance of the new guidelines, the vast majority of media organizations covering the Pentagon rejected the conditions, turning in their badges and leaving their workspaces. 

Sources: Politico, NPR, New York Times, Washington Post, AP