The Pentagon has barred journalists from its press office, designating the area a classified space, in what critics describe as another attack on press freedom by the Trump administration. The restrictions began in September when the military demanded journalists pledge not to gather unauthorized information, including unclassified documents, or risk losing their press passes.
Pentagon's Defense of the Move
Joel Valdez, the acting Pentagon press secretary, defended the decision on social media, stating, "This is the most transparent war department in history. No amount of spin from the Fake News media will change that." He claimed the redesignation was necessary because speechwriters from the Office of the Secretary of War shared the facility.
Media Reaction and Legal Challenges
Many veteran reporters refused to comply with the new rules and surrendered their press passes after the department announced sweeping restrictions in October. The Pentagon then introduced a "next generation of the Pentagon press corps" consisting of 60 journalists from far-right outlets. The New York Times sued over the policies, which labeled journalists as security risks, and a federal judge ruled in the Times' favor in March.
Trump's Fund and Legal Setbacks
Meanwhile, Donald Trump is reconsidering his push for a $1.8 billion fund to compensate allies, as the Justice Department paused the program. The "anti-weaponization" fund has faced legal hurdles, with some Republicans urging the White House to abandon it due to lack of oversight and potential payouts to participants in the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot. A federal judge in Virginia temporarily blocked fund transfers.
Hezbollah and Israel De-escalation
Trump also claimed that Hezbollah and Israel have agreed to stop all shooting, following his calls with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Hezbollah representatives. However, Hezbollah MP Hassan Fadlallah denied a partial truce offer, and Netanyahu said Israel would attack Beirut if Hezbollah continued its attacks.
Other News Highlights
In other news, hackers used Meta's AI chatbot to infiltrate high-profile Instagram accounts, including Barack Obama's White House account. Iowa authorities investigate six fatal shootings by a relative who later killed himself. A court ruled that transgender troops can remain in the military but enlistment can be blocked. Google seeks permission to release sterilized mosquitoes in California and Florida to reduce disease spread.
Barack Obama's Presidential Library
Barack Obama's $850 million presidential library in Chicago is described as the largest and most audacious such complex, though critics call it windowless and fortress-like.
Culture and Climate
In culture, a documentary about a guru who claimed to be possessed by an alien is reviewed, as is a nostalgic train ride through Poland and a book on George Michael. The UN warns of the imminent return of El Niño, with an 80% chance of forming before September.
World Record with Marilyn Monroe Lookalikes
Finally, over 1,000 Marilyn Monroe lookalikes gathered in Palm Springs to celebrate her 100th birthday, setting a new world record.
