Judge Overturns Pentagon's Press Access Restrictions

A federal judge has invalidated key provisions of the Pentagon's press policy, citing violations of constitutional rights. The policy, introduced by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth in October 2025, required journalists to pledge not to solicit or use unauthorized material, including unclassified information, under threat of losing access to the building. Major news organizations, including The New York Times, CNN, and Fox News, refused to sign the agreement, expressing concerns over press freedom and government transparency.

U.S. District Judge Paul Friedman ruled that the policy violated the First and Fifth Amendment rights of journalists. He emphasized the importance of a free press, especially during times of military conflict, stating that the public must have access to information from various perspectives to make informed decisions.

The ruling reinstates the press credentials of seven New York Times journalists who had been denied access for refusing to sign the pledge. The Pentagon has indicated plans to appeal the decision.