In another of a series of moves restricting media access at the Pentagon, the US Defence Department has designated the Pentagon press office as a classified space, barring journalists from entering the area.
Acting Pentagon Press Secretary Joel Valdez said the office was redesignated as a Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility because speechwriters handling classified material now share the space. He said the move is not controversial and is necessary to protect sensitive information.
The decision comes amid growing tensions between the Trump administration and the me8dia. Pentagon reporters have faced increasing restrictions on access in recent months, including requirements to be escorted while inside the building.
The New York Times has challenged the restrictions in court, arguing they violate First Amendment protections and hinder independent reporting on military affairs. Legal proceedings over the Pentagon’s media access policies are ongoing.