Hegseth Ousts Top Pentagon Strategist Amid Investigation

Lt. Gen. Brett Sylvia reportedly failed three polygraph examinations related to the alleged disclosures of classified information.

War Secretary Pete Hegseth has ousted one of the Pentagon’s top strategic planners.

The move comes amid an investigation into allegations that Lt. Gen. Brett Sylvia leaked classified information to journalists about the Iran war, Russia’s war in Ukraine and other sensitive matters.

Sylvia reportedly failed three polygraph examinations related to the alleged disclosures of classified information. The investigation has been referred to the Justice Department.

Sylvia is also accused of meeting journalists outside the Pentagon with alleged intention of leaking classified material after Hegseth imposed new media restrictions requiring reporters to be escorted inside the building.

Sylvia is the second officer leading the Pentagon’s planning group to be removed under Hegseth.