DoD: Withholds All Records on Released UAP Video Analysis
The Department of Defense denied a FOIA request seeking internal communications and analysis related to the 'Middle East 2024' UAP video released by AARO. Citing deliberative process and law enforcement exemptions, the Pentagon withheld all responsive records despite confirming their existence.
Background
On September 19, 2025, the Department of Defense issued a final response to a Freedom of Information Act request filed by The Black Vault on May 19, 2025. The request sought internal communications, review logs, classification guidance, legal opinions, and technical documentation connected to the release of the 'Middle East 2024' UAP video.
The DoD confirmed that responsive documents exist but withheld them in their entirety. The denial cited Exemption (b)(5) for deliberative inter- and intra-agency material, and multiple law enforcement exemptions under (b)(7) including provisions for protecting enforcement proceedings, ensuring fair trials, personal privacy, and law enforcement techniques.
This decision highlights an ongoing pattern where UAP footage is released publicly while the analytical process and deliberations remain secret. The use of law enforcement exemptions for unresolved aerial phenomena has drawn criticism for applying criminal investigation secrecy to matters presented as scientific anomalies.