Secretary Hegseth Fires Top Military Planner Over Classified Leak Probe
U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth has dismissed Army Lieutenant General Brett Sylvia amid an investigation into alleged classified information leaks.
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U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth has reportedly dismissed Army Lieutenant General Brett Sylvia, the Department of War’s top military planner, amid an investigation into alleged classified information leaks, according to Pentagon officials.
Investigation into Classified Information Leaks
The move comes as Sylvia, a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, faces scrutiny for alleged misconduct related to leaking classified information concerning multiple foreign affairs, according to media reports. Pentagon officials confirmed the firing, citing severe misconduct.
According to Senior White House and National Security Correspondent Alexandra Ingersoll, Sylvia was removed for “severe misconduct.” Despite his title as director of the Directorate for Strategy, Plans, and Policy at the Joint Chiefs of Staff, known as the J5, he was not a central planner for the Iran War. That role falls under CENTCOM and its commander, Admiral Cooper.
Sylvia, 54, is reportedly under investigation for leaking classified details about the United States’ conflict with Iran and the war between Russia and Ukraine, among other issues. According to Ingersoll, Sylvia began meeting with journalists outside the Pentagon to leak information, as required by the Pentagon’s media policy. He failed three polygraph tests, which led to his dismissal to protect national security.
Polygraph Use in Military Investigations
Polygraph results, commonly known as lie detector tests, are generally inadmissible as evidence in court due to their lack of scientific consensus. However, they are still used in specific non-trial contexts. Service members in intelligence, counterintelligence, or sensitive military occupational specialties are frequently required to take polygraph tests during screenings and reviews. Military investigative agencies use polygraphs as an investigative tool during counterintelligence inquiries, such as looking into unauthorized disclosures.
Sylvia has served as director of the Directorate for Strategy, Plans, and Policy since 2025. He previously commanded the 101st Airborne Division. He has reportedly been referred to the Department of Justice (DOJ) for further action, with the investigation ongoing.
Pentagon Statement on Classified Information
Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell commented on the investigation, stating, “The Department of War has zero tolerance for the intentional, unauthorized disclosure of classified information.” Parnell emphasized that leaking classified information puts the lives of military personnel at risk and undermines national security operations.
He added, “Classified information is not personal property. Leaking it for personal, political, or professional gain is a betrayal of the trust placed in those responsible for keeping it.” The matter, along with others, has been referred to the Justice Department.
Source: OANN
