Overview
- Judge Paul Friedman, ruling Thursday, said the Pentagon tried to dictate what the public learns and ordered full access for accredited reporters with a compliance plan due April 16.
- The Defense Department rejected the decision and said it is weighing an appeal, according to spokesman Sean Cornell on X.
- The October policy at issue barred publication of any information not approved by the Pentagon and prohibited reporters from questioning non‑authorized military sources.
- After a March ruling struck parts down, a new interim policy further limited movement inside the building, closed the press workspace, and pushed reporters to escorted entry or an off‑site annex.
- Fifty‑five of 56 outlets in the Pentagon Press Association refused to sign the rules and surrendered their badges as Friedman warned that curbing political speech is especially dangerous in wartime.