A U.S. judge ruled Friday that key parts of the Pentagon’s media access policy are unconstitutional, restoring journalists’ credentials after several major outlets refused to comply. The decision is considered a victory for press freedom.
The policy required media organizations to pledge not to gather information without formal authorization from Defense officials. The court found these rules conflict with First Amendment protections.
While acknowledging the need to protect national security, the judge emphasized the public’s right to information, particularly given current U.S. involvement in conflicts with Iran and intervention in Venezuela. The government had argued the policy was reasonable and necessary.