US Pentagon Bars Media From Press Office Over New 'Classified' Status

The US Department of Defense has restricted journalist access to the Pentagon’s press operations area, reclassifying the long-standing media workspace as a "classified space." The decision ends decades of relatively open access for accredited reporters to the building’s press corridor. Security Classification Restricts Movement Pentagon officials informed the Pentagon Press Association (PPA) that the suite of offices used by reporters now requires higher security clearances due to the proximity of sensitive operations. Under the new rules, journalists are prohibited from entering their designated work area without specific escorts or meeting stringent new security protocols that were not previously required for the 2E973 office suite. The restriction impacts dozens of news organizations that maintain a permanent presence at the Department of Defense. While briefings in the main press room will continue, the ability for reporters to engage in informal "hallway" reporting and maintain desks inside the secure perimeter has been effectively suspended. Media Advocacy Groups Raise Concerns The Pentagon Press Association has expressed formal opposition to the move, stating that the…