Pete Hegseth fires top Pentagon strategist over classified media leaks

War Secretary Pete Hegseth has fired the Pentagon's top military planner, Army Lieutenant General Brett Sylvia, from his post leading strategy, plans, and policy. Fox News and the South China Morning Post reported that a defence official confirmed the dismissal. Fox News and CBS News both reported that the firing followed allegations that General Sylvia leaked classified information to journalists. [1][3][8]

A Department of War official told Fox News that General Sylvia allegedly failed three polygraph examinations connected to disclosures about the war with Iran, Russia's war in Ukraine, and other sensitive subjects. Fox News added that General Sylvia is accused of meeting journalists outside the Pentagon to leak material, and the matter has been referred to the Department of Justice. [1]

The dismissal comes as United States President Donald Trump considers renewed strikes on Iran, according to the South China Morning Post and AP News. CNN and the Washington Times also reported on the removal of the chief planner amid the looming action in the eight-month-long conflict. [2][3][4][5]

As FTMQ News reported earlier, General Sylvia served as the Pentagon director for strategy, plans, and policy on the Joint Staff. The United States and Israel have been engaged in a war with Iran since February 2026. [12]

Al Jazeera reported that the Pentagon estimates the Iran war has cost United States taxpayers 47 billion dollars. Analysts told Al Jazeera that the ongoing conflict could influence voter choices in the upcoming United States midterm elections. [6]