NEW YORK CITY, New York: Dozens of journalists walked out of the Pentagon on October 15, surrendering their access badges rather than agreeing to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's new restrictions on press activity.

The move, which effectively ousted reporters from one of Washington's most tightly controlled institutions, marked a significant rift between the U.S. military and the media that covers it.

Under the new rules, journalists could lose access to the Pentagon if they reported on any information — classified or not- that had not been pre-approved for release by Hegseth. The Defense Department called the policy "common sense," saying it was designed to curb what it described as a "very disruptive" press environment. Nearly every major news organization rejected the terms, saying the restrictions violated fundamental principles of press freedom.

By 4 p.m., the deadline set for compliance, dozens of reporters had packed up years of work from their offices inside the Pentagon. Boxes of papers and personal items filled the hallways as journalists carried chairs, books, and photos to the parking lot. Around 40 to 50 reporters left together, handing in their badges before departing. "It's sad, but I'm also really proud of the press corps that we stuck together," said Nancy Youssef of The Atlantic, who has reported from the Pentagon since 2007. "To agree not to solicit information is to agree not to be a journalist."

President Donald Trump voiced full support for the restrictions, saying from the White House that Hegseth "finds the press very disruptive in terms of world peace" and that "the press is very dishonest." The administration has been involved in multiple legal battles with major media outlets, including The New York Times, CBS News, ABC News, The Wall Street Journal, and The Associated Press.

Since taking office, Hegseth, a former Fox News host, has already severely limited press access. He has held only two formal briefings, restricted movement within the Pentagon without escorts, and launched investigations into leaks. He maintains that the new agreement acknowledges the rules rather than requiring reporters to endorse them — a distinction journalists reject.

Despite the loss of on-site access, reporters vowed to continue covering the military. "The reporting will continue," said Heather Mongilio of USNINews. Former generals like Jack Keane lamented the new policy, saying it undercuts the military's openness. "Stories that make us flinch often mean we can do better," he said.