Argentina Government Bars All Accredited Reporters from Presidential Palace The government of Argentine President Javier Milei has barred all accredited journalists from entering the Casa Rosada, the nation’s presidential palace in Buenos Aires, following a security complaint filed by the Casa Militar, the military unit responsible for the president’s protection. The move, which took effect on Thursday morning, marks the first time since Argentina’s return to democracy in 1983 that the press has been collectively denied access to the seat of executive power. Journalists learned of the restriction upon arrival at the palace gates, where their fingerprint-based access credentials had been deactivated. The presidential press room was subsequently closed, and no reporters were permitted to enter the building. The ban affects all media organizations that routinely cover presidential activities at the historic government headquarters in downtown Buenos Aires. The government’s decision stems from a criminal complaint alleging illegal espionage after footage filmed inside the Casa Rosada’s corridors was aired by the television network Todo Noticias (TN). According to officials, the footage was captured using smart glasses—computer-powered eyewear capable of discreet recording. Presidential spokesperson Javier Lanari confirmed on X (formerly Twitter) that the removal of journalists’ access was a “preventative measure” intended to safeguard national security. President Milei publicly criticized the journalists involved, referring to them as “disgusting trash” and questioning their integrity after TN broadcast a report that included images of Cabinet Chief Manuel Adorni moving through the palace. Lanari reiterated that the sole purpose of the access restriction was to ensure national security amid concerns over unauthorized surveillance. Journalists accredited to operate from the Casa Rosada issued a joint statement condemning the action as “unjustified” and warned that it constitutes an explicit attack on press freedom, the practice of journalism, and the public’s right to access information. Press freedom advocates have expressed alarm over the escalating tensions between Milei’s administration and the media, noting repeated public clashes between the president and journalists since he assumed office in December 2023. Local media outlets described the blanket ban as unprecedented in Argentina’s democratic era. As of the time of reporting, no official statement had been issued by the government detailing the duration or conditions for lifting the restriction. Correspondents noted uncertainty about how long the ban would remain in effect, with some suggesting it could persist pending the outcome of the espionage investigation.
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