A US court has ruled that the Pentagon's policy restricting journalists' access to certain information violates the First Amendment of the US Constitution.
Federal Judge Paul Friedman issued the ruling on Friday in favor of The New York Times, as reported by The Hill.
In his 40-page ruling, Judge Friedman acknowledged the need to protect national security, troop safety, and military strategies but emphasized the public's right to access government actions. “While national security concerns must be safeguarded, especially amid the US intervention in Venezuela and the ongoing conflict with Iran, it is crucial that the public receives information from a variety of sources,” Friedman wrote.
Judge Friedman, appointed by former President Bill Clinton, emphasized the importance of transparency and public oversight.
In response, Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell expressed disagreement with the ruling. On Friday night, he tweeted, “We disagree with this ruling; the appeals process has begun.”
The Pentagon's controversial media policy, introduced last year, requires journalists to sign an agreement to obtain press badges. The policy mandates that any information from the department—regardless of classification—must be approved by higher-ranking officials before release.
Since its implementation, many journalists have refused to sign the agreement, arguing that it infringes on press freedom. However, the Pentagon maintains that the policy is being misinterpreted and insists that it is legal.
Bd-pratidin English/Jisan
