Pete Hegseth’s attempt to gag journalism is a resounding failure | Margaret Sullivan

The GuardianWednesday, October 15, 2025 at 10:00:35 AM
Pete Hegseth’s attempt to gag journalism is a resounding failure | Margaret Sullivan
Pete Hegseth's recent push to limit journalism to only 'explicitly authorized' information has sparked significant backlash, highlighting the essential role of a free press in democracy. This attempt to control the narrative is reminiscent of past efforts to suppress dissenting voices, as illustrated by Tom Bowman's experiences covering the Pentagon. The importance of independent journalism is underscored by historical events, such as the misleading narratives surrounding the Iraq War, reminding us that the truth often lies beyond official statements.
— Curated by the World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

Was this article worth reading? Share it

Recommended Readings
Ukraine war ‘will end on Trump’s watch’, US tells NATO
NeutralWorld Affairs
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth recently stated that the ongoing Ukraine war is expected to conclude during President Trump's potential next term. This remark has sparked discussions among NATO members about the future of the conflict and the role of US leadership in international affairs. It highlights the significant impact that US political dynamics can have on global issues, particularly in regions facing instability.
Ukraine war ‘will end on Trump’s watch’, US tells NATO
NeutralWorld Affairs
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth recently stated that the ongoing Ukraine war is expected to conclude during President Trump's potential next term. This remark has sparked discussions among NATO members about the future of the conflict and the role of US leadership in international affairs. It highlights the significant impact that US political dynamics can have on global issues, particularly in regions facing instability.
'Firepower' coming for Ukraine, Hegseth tells NATO
PositiveWorld Affairs
In a significant development for Ukraine, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that more military support, referred to as 'firepower', is on the way. This comes as discussions intensify around the potential provision of long-range Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine, aimed at applying pressure on Russia to conclude the ongoing conflict. This support is crucial as it could enhance Ukraine's defense capabilities and alter the dynamics of the war.
'Firepower' coming for Ukraine, Hegseth tells NATO
PositiveWorld Affairs
In a significant development for Ukraine, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that more military support, referred to as 'firepower', is on the way. This comes as discussions intensify around the potential provision of long-range Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine, aimed at applying pressure on Russia to conclude the ongoing conflict. This support is crucial as it could enhance Ukraine's defense capabilities and alter the dynamics of the war.
NATO must buy more US arms for Ukraine – Pentagon chief
PositiveWorld Affairs
US War Secretary Pete Hegseth has urged European NATO countries to increase their purchases of American arms for Ukraine. This call comes as the ongoing conflict in Ukraine continues to demand significant military support. Strengthening Ukraine's defense capabilities is crucial for regional stability and demonstrates NATO's commitment to collective security. By bolstering Ukraine's military resources, NATO aims to deter aggression and support a sovereign nation in its fight for independence.
NATO must buy more US arms for Ukraine – Pentagon chief
PositiveWorld Affairs
US War Secretary Pete Hegseth has urged European NATO countries to increase their purchases of American arms for Ukraine. This call comes as the ongoing conflict in Ukraine continues to demand significant military support. Strengthening Ukraine's defense capabilities is crucial for regional stability and demonstrates NATO's commitment to collective security. By bolstering Ukraine's military resources, NATO aims to deter aggression and support a sovereign nation in its fight for independence.
‘I am the only one that matters’: Trump deals praise and insults at Gaza summit
NeutralWorld Affairs
At the recent Gaza summit in Sharm el-Sheikh, Donald Trump showcased his unique style by both praising and insulting fellow leaders. He called Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni 'beautiful' and referred to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan as a 'friend,' while taking jabs at leaders from Iraq and Canada. This event, described as largely pointless, highlights Trump's controversial approach to diplomacy and his self-proclaimed role as the world's greatest peacemaker, raising questions about the effectiveness of such summits.
‘I am the only one that matters’: Trump deals praise and insults at Gaza summit
NeutralWorld Affairs
At the recent Gaza summit in Sharm el-Sheikh, Donald Trump showcased his unique style by both praising and insulting fellow leaders. He called Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni 'beautiful' and referred to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan as a 'friend,' while taking jabs at leaders from Iraq and Canada. This event, described as largely pointless, highlights Trump's controversial approach to diplomacy and his self-proclaimed role as the world's greatest peacemaker, raising questions about the effectiveness of such summits.
Mainstream media rejects Pentagon’s new press rules
NegativeWorld Affairs
The Pentagon's new press rules have sparked significant backlash from mainstream media, with US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth responding dismissively to the protests. This situation highlights ongoing tensions between government transparency and media freedom, raising concerns about the implications for journalistic integrity and public access to information. As media outlets push back against these restrictions, the debate over the balance of power in reporting on government actions becomes increasingly critical.
Mainstream media rejects Pentagon’s new press rules
NegativeWorld Affairs
The Pentagon's new press rules have sparked significant backlash from mainstream media, with US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth responding dismissively to the protests. This situation highlights ongoing tensions between government transparency and media freedom, raising concerns about the implications for journalistic integrity and public access to information. As media outlets push back against these restrictions, the debate over the balance of power in reporting on government actions becomes increasingly critical.
Latest from World Affairs
Cracked windscreen forces US Defence Secretary's plane to make unscheduled landing in UK
NeutralWorld Affairs
A cracked windscreen forced the US Defence Secretary's plane to make an unscheduled landing in the UK while returning from a NATO meeting. Fortunately, the Pentagon confirmed that Hegseth and other military leaders on board are safe. This incident highlights the importance of aircraft safety and the unexpected challenges that can arise during official travel.
Ukraine imposes blackouts in most regions after Russian power grid attacks
NegativeWorld Affairs
Ukraine is facing its fourth consecutive winter of power outages due to ongoing attacks on its power grid by Russia. This situation highlights the severe impact of the conflict on everyday life for Ukrainians, as they struggle with energy shortages during the cold months. The blackouts not only affect heating and electricity but also disrupt essential services, making it a critical issue for the nation.
Manitoba youth advocate calls for more help for kids affected by wildfires
PositiveWorld Affairs
The Manitoba youth advocate is urging the provincial government to take stronger action to support children affected by wildfires. This call to action is crucial as it highlights the need for targeted assistance to mitigate the impact of such disasters on young people, ensuring their well-being and future.
Ex-Hydro-Québec employee accused of spying for China secretly published research, court hears
NegativeWorld Affairs
The trial of Yuesheng Wang, a former Hydro-Québec employee, has revealed that he allegedly published unauthorized research while spying for China. This case raises serious concerns about national security and the protection of sensitive information, highlighting the potential risks posed by insider threats in critical industries.
Tesla urges Delaware court to restore Musk’s $56bn payday
NeutralWorld Affairs
Tesla is urging a Delaware court to reinstate Elon Musk's $56 billion compensation package, following a judge's decision in January 2024 to rescind it. This case is significant as it highlights the ongoing tensions between corporate governance and executive compensation, raising questions about the accountability of CEOs and the role of shareholders in such decisions.
US man wrongfully imprisoned for more than 40 years faces deportation after Ice arrest
NegativeWorld Affairs
Subramanyam Vedam, a 64-year-old man who was wrongfully imprisoned for over 40 years, has recently been exonerated for a murder he did not commit. However, his relief is short-lived as he now faces deportation to India after being taken into custody by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This situation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by individuals who are wrongfully convicted and the complexities of immigration laws that can affect their lives even after exoneration.