The Pentagon held its first press briefing under new leadership, with press secretary Kingsley Wilson fielding questions from a largely friendly group of reporters after mainstream outlets were replaced by those willing to accept new rules. The briefing covered a range of topics, including military actions in Iran and Somalia, investigations into former President Joe Biden, and potential legal action against a major newspaper. Wilson often stuck to talking points and avoided direct answers, particularly on sensitive issues such as strikes on suspected drug boats and U.S. involvement in Venezuela and Somalia.

Some attendees, including conservative media figures and former politicians, expressed support for the new approach, while veteran journalists criticized the exclusion of traditional reporters and the lack of substantive answers. The Pentagon emphasized that only invited press could attend, signaling a shift away from previous practices. The new media representatives are expected to meet with department chief Pete Hegseth in person soon.