Pentagon Designates Press Office as Restricted Area, Barring Media Access on June 1

According to Pentagon Deputy Press Secretary Joel Valdez, on June 1, the U.S. Department of Defense designated the Pentagon's press office as a restricted area, prohibiting media reporters from entering without authorization. The office was previously an open space where journalists could enter and exit freely.

The policy change was announced because speechwriters for Defense Secretary Hegath require access to classified materials and military secure internet systems while working in the press office, Valdez said on social media. He emphasized the decision is "indisputable."