Trump approves Defense Department social media overhaul

The Department of Defense (DOD) has made a significant decision to halt all social media posts on its platforms worldwide, except for those related to U.S. military operations and deployments safeguarding the southern border. This directive, approved by President Donald Trump, will remain in effect until the confirmation of the new defense secretary, who will then provide further guidance. Two senior U.S. defense officials disclosed this information to Fox News.

The temporary pause is anticipated to last only a few days, during which time instructions will be disseminated to all uniformed and civilian public affairs officers managing social media accounts. The primary focus of all social media posts during this period should revolve around “warfighting and lethality,” according to sources.

A senior defense official emphasized that the new administration aims to ensure that all communications align with its objectives. It is important to note that the pause solely applies to social media posts, while press releases will continue to be distributed to reporters and posted on DOD websites.

Civilian and military public affairs officers across the globe will soon receive internal guidance regarding all social media posts and outreach efforts for military recruiting, DOD schools, and combatant commands engaged in ongoing military operations. Existing social media accounts will be deactivated, and no new posts will be permitted until the future defense secretary grants permission to resume activity.

“The Department of Defense is reviewing its social media programming to make sure it aligns with President Trump’s priorities on readiness, lethality, and warfighting,” a senior U.S. defense official stated to Fox News. The current pause does not apply to content related to the DOD’s recent border security operations announced by Acting Secretary of Defense Robert G. Salesses.

In the past, the military faced criticism for social media posts that some deemed to focus on “woke” priorities. For instance, the U.S. Army faced backlash in 2021 for a recruitment ad featuring a corporal with two moms as part of the “The Calling” campaign. Critics raised concerns about the ad potentially undermining confidence in the military’s strength.

Moreover, social media posts by various military branches during Pride Month have also garnered criticism. The U.S. Space Force, U.S. Marines, and U.S. Air Force shared posts highlighting LGBTQ+ issues, leading to mixed reactions from the public.

President Trump’s administration previously issued a directive limiting the display of flags at U.S. buildings to the American flag, with only two exceptions. Additionally, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) government offices were ordered to close, placing all DEI federal workers on paid administrative leave.

For further clarification, Fox News Digital reached out to the White House for additional comments. This development underscores the importance of aligning social media communications with the priorities and objectives of the current administration.