BUENOS AIRES, Argentina: Argentine President Javier Milei's administration has escalated its dispute with the media by restricting journalist access to the presidential palace for a third straight day.

The ban began on Thursday and Friday, when the government prohibited journalists from entering the Casa Rosada in response to claims of 'illegal espionage'.

This policy was continued on Monday, with journalists once again being denied entry.

Milei, known for his affinity with US President Donald Trump, has a contentious relationship with the press, having frequently disparaged them since taking office in December 2023.

The presidential security service is currently investigating two Todo Noticias channel journalists for allegedly filming in restricted areas of the palace without authorization.

The journalists contend they had permission and assert that these areas are often visited by school children on educational tours.

In response to this situation, the financial daily Ambito Financiero has sought an emergency court order demanding that access be restored.

The Argentine media association ADEPA condemned the press ban, arguing it undermines freedom of expression and the right to information—key principles of a democratic system.

Despite the backlash, Milei remains dismissive of the criticism.

In a social media post, he used the Spanish acronym for his slogan 'We don't hate journalists enough', implying that further restrictions on the press are justified.

Efforts to mediate the standoff have been offered by the Catholic Church.

Archbishop Jorge Lozano, speaking on behalf of the association of Argentine Catholic bishops, expressed surprise at the media ban and proposed himself as a mediator in negotiations to restore access.

This ongoing conflict between President Milei's government and the press highlights tensions within Argentina regarding media freedom and governance.