Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth announced the establishment of a joint task force with the Department of Justice (DOJ) to target officials who leak sensitive information to the media. This initiative, revealed on Monday, allows the Pentagon’s Office of General Counsel (OGC) to access information, support, and records throughout the department linked to media leak probes.

Hegseth emphasized the risks associated with leaks, stating, “To address these threats effectively, I have authorized the war department’s office of general counsel to request and receive all information, records, and support across the department concerning media leak investigations.” He further highlighted that leaked details can endanger lives and that new strategies will better safeguard the joint force.

In his announcement shared via video, Hegseth argued that national security should not be compromised for temporary media attention. He underscored the importance of maintaining confidentiality, asserting that those who breach this trust will face severe legal consequences.

The secretary expressed appreciation for the DOJ’s involvement, specifically acknowledging Acting U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche’s cooperation. Hegseth noted, “I am proud that our departments are working together more closely than ever.” This development follows the DOJ’s issuance of subpoenas to four New York Times reporters. The subpoenas, related to their coverage of the security issues surrounding a plane gifted to ex-President Trump, have faced criticism. They are seen as an effort to intimidate journalists engaged in legitimate governmental reporting.

David McCraw, an attorney for The New York Times, criticized this action, labeling it a threat to press freedom protected by the Constitution. “Our journalists report the facts, ensuring transparency in government operations and taxpayer spending,” McCraw stated. He described the subpoenas as an attempt to deter journalists from their duties.

Since assuming leadership at the Pentagon, Hegseth has prioritized reducing media leaks. The department has launched investigations into individuals suspected of leaking classified information and has considered polygraph tests to identify culprits. Hegseth also introduced restrictions on Pentagon reporters, requiring them to avoid soliciting unauthorized materials, prompting many reporters to return their press badges in protest.

This restrictive policy faces legal challenges, and a judge recently issued a preliminary injunction, finding that the mandate for journalists to be continuously accompanied by a Pentagon official violates the First Amendment. The New York Times has been actively contesting this requirement.