Which news outlet initially signed up to Trump's demands? | Media Watch

Key Concepts:

• Pentagon Press Gag Order
• Independent Reporting
• Media Walkout
• Press Freedoms
• "Department of War" Guidance

Pentagon's New Guidance and Media Reaction

The United States Pentagon has issued a series of new directives to media outlets, which have been interpreted as an attempt to restrict independent reporting. These new rules, reportedly from the newly named "Department of War," required media organizations to sign on to specific demands.

Mass Walkout by Journalists

In response to this guidance, a significant walkout occurred at the Pentagon. This rebellion saw media outlets from across the political spectrum refuse to comply. Prominent publications such as The Washington Post and The New York Times, as well as conservative outlets like Fox News and Newsmax, all joined the boycott. This collective action led to dozens of reporters handing in their press badges, leaving the Pentagon "almost empty" of journalists for the first time in decades.

The Australian's Reversal

An exception to the widespread walkout was initially noted with a reporter for The Australian, a News Corp-owned Australian newspaper. However, once the list of signatories became public, the publication's Sydney headquarters experienced a change of heart. Following an inquiry from an unnamed source regarding the correspondent's agreement to the rules, The Australian "back flipped" and revoked its assent.

Justification for Reversal

A spokesperson for The Australian stated that a "review of the rules" had forced their hand. The publication cited that the rules "raise serious concerns and place undue limits on press freedoms." This "discreet reverse ferret" was reportedly prompted by the international humiliation the broadsheet brought upon itself for failing to thoroughly examine the terms before agreeing. The spokesperson explicitly stated, "We have advised the Pentagon that we have revoked our ascent."