The new directive would have clamped down on the freewheeling access reporters have had to troops. Commanders would have been allowed to bar journalists from accompanying them on hazardous or particularly sensitive patrols, according to U.S. military spokesman Maj. William Thurmond.
“The order (commanders) received should not be seen as a blanket denial of coverage,” he said, speaking before the directive had been rescinded. “For security purposes you will not be allowed to accompany us on certain missions.”
The military still intended to give journalists access to military operations to “the maximum extent possible,” he added. “I don’t think you’re going to see a big difference.”
Thurmond said he did not know what prompted the order, but he confirmed it had been sent to coalition commanders throughout Iraq.
Shortly after the order was reported by AP, Maj. Josslyn Aberle, spokeswoman for the 4th Infantry, said Coalition Joint Task Force in Baghdad had withdrawn it for the time being. She said the initial directive was issued Thursday without explanation.