Pentagon Tightens Press Rules After Dispute With Epoch Times Reporter

The U.S. Defense Department has updated its press access rules after a dispute involving a reporter from The Epoch Times. According to officials, the recent incident led the Pentagon to re-examine how journalists are accredited and how briefings are managed.

The Epoch Times, a conservative-leaning media outlet with ties to the Falun Gong movement, has been the subject of scrutiny over its editorial stance and fact-checking record. Pentagon officials argued that the new policies are designed to maintain order and security at federal press events, not to limit media freedom.

Under the revised rules, journalists seeking access will face stricter identity checks, clearer behavioral guidelines, and faster removal if they violate conduct standards. Officials said the new framework reflects concerns raised by military staff during past briefings.

Press freedom advocates, however, warned that the change could be used to block reporters from ideologically controversial outlets. They urged the Pentagon to ensure the rules are enforced fairly and without political bias.

Epoch Times representatives criticized the move, calling it discriminatory and harmful to transparency. They said federal institutions must allow scrutiny from all media, not just mainstream outlets.

The Pentagon said it plans to continue briefings as usual while the new rules are implemented. It stressed that national security and professional conduct come before political disputes between government officials and media organizations.