Pentagon Warns Journalists to Stay Clear of U.S. Fleet in Gulf

The Pentagon today warned reporters in the Persian Gulf region to stay away from the U.S. fleet, lest they find themselves on the business end of a missile.

Spokesman Bob Sims said large numbers of journalists are gathering in the region to cover the planned protection of Kuwaiti tankers by U.S. Navy ships and planes and any consequences which might develop.

“Some of the news organizations appear to be chartering planes and boats for purposes that I don’t know about--but I can imagine,” he told reporters at a Pentagon news briefing.

“There are hazards involved in approaching our military units too closely. I would ask you to relay to your organizations: It is not in their best interests to be operating in the vicinity of our naval forces.”

Sims noted that President Reagan placed U.S. forces in the gulf on defensive alert after a May 17 Iraqi missile attack on the Navy frigate Stark. Thirty-seven U.S. sailors died in the attack.

“It is not a question of hostile intent, but of being in the presence of complicated military maneuvers. It’s an area where our forces may be operating in some increased alert status, so it is just prudent to stay well away from them,” Sims said.

Asked if he meant that Navy ships or jets would fire missiles or guns at any plane or boat that approached too closely, he drew a burst of laughter with the response, “No, only if it’s yours.”