US War Secretary Pete Hegseth has issued a sweeping directive that codifies new restrictions on Pentagon officials’ participation in think tank panels and other outside events.

The policy, which applies to any event not hosted by the United States government, deepens concerns about growing media restrictions and reduced transparency at the US Department of War.

According to the directive, service members and Pentagon civilians must now obtain written approval before attending or speaking at external events. The order expands on rules first outlined in July that barred many officials from speaking at think tank events, though it still does not specify which organizations are affected.

The new restrictions have already created uncertainty among defense officials and outside groups. Some have avoided engaging with think tanks while awaiting clearer guidance, while others expressed concern that reduced collaboration could stifle innovation.

“It’s the consistent in-person collaboration between our military, industry, and academia that is so important to make sure that we’re doing the right things, that we’re on the right path,” retired Col. Thom Green, chair of the Michigan chapter of the US National Defense Industrial Association, said to Politico.

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Limited exceptions under the new rules

Only a narrow set of activities are exempt, including Pentagon-hosted industry sessions, airshows, parades, certain security-cleared briefings, and some meetings with foreign governments. All other engagements require vetting by the Pentagon’s top public affairs office.

Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell defended the move, saying it ensures the department does not “lend its name and credibility to organizations, forums, and events that run counter to the values of this administration.”

Critics warn of bureaucracy and isolation

The directive follows a series of actions that have increasingly limited media access to the Pentagon, including restrictions on reporters covering the building.

Critics argue the moves reflect a culture of secrecy under Hegseth, who faced criticism earlier this year over leaked messages and a shake-up of his inner circle.

Some officials see the policy as a step back from promises to reduce bureaucracy. “What we’ve largely seen is the administration has massively expanded red tape, bureaucracy and unnecessary time-wasting tasks that distract from our core mission,” said one defense official, speaking anonymously.