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Judge Questions Pentagon's Press Restrictions Amid Lawsuit

4/1/2026

Summary

Story summary

A federal judge questioned the Pentagon's new press restrictions during a hearing on March 31, 2026.
Judge Paul Friedman had previously blocked these restrictions, which limited reporter access and were criticized for violating the First Amendment.
Theodore J. Boutrous Jr., representing The New York Times, argued the restrictions hindered public access to information about the U.S.-Israel war on Iran.
The New York Times filed a lawsuit against the Pentagon on December 4, 2025, claiming the policy obstructed journalistic duties.
Following a ruling on March 20, the judge reinstated press passes for Times reporters.

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Story summary

A federal judge questioned the Pentagon's new press restrictions during a hearing on March 31, 2026.
Judge Paul Friedman had previously blocked these restrictions, which limited reporter access and were criticized for violating the First Amendment.
Theodore J. Boutrous Jr., representing The New York Times, argued the restrictions hindered public access to information about the U.S.-Israel war on Iran.
The New York Times filed a lawsuit against the Pentagon on December 4, 2025, claiming the policy obstructed journalistic duties.
Following a ruling on March 20, the judge reinstated press passes for Times reporters.