Pentagon fires top planner Brett Sylvia after media leak probe

The United States military has fired Lieutenant General Brett Sylvia, a top planner on the Pentagon's Joint Staff, following an investigation into media leaks. The Washington Examiner and ABC News reported that Sylvia was removed from his post, with the Washington Examiner adding that the matter has been officially referred to the Department of Justice. [1][2]

According to the Washington Examiner, top Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell confirmed the firing in a social media statement on October 29, 2026. Parnell stated that an extensive investigation into media leaks preceded the decision to dismiss the senior officer. [1]

Other news outlets, including CNN and AP News, reported that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth forced out the top planner as the Trump administration considers new military action against Iran. The dismissals follow wider scrutiny surrounding security and leaks within the United States defense apparatus. [2]

The Joint Staff serves as the operational support body for the Joint Chiefs of Staff, which includes the most senior uniformed military leaders who advise the president and the secretary of defense. The group helps coordinate military operations across all branches of the armed forces. [3]