Pentagon Fires General Brett Sylvia Over Leak Claims
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has dismissed Lieutenant General Brett Sylvia from a senior Pentagon planning position following allegations that he disclosed classified military information concerning the Iran conflict and the Russia-Ukraine war to journalists. The dismissal, confirmed on October 29, 2026, has triggered an investigation, with Pentagon officials claiming that Sylvia failed multiple polygraph examinations.
Brett Sylvia Removed From Senior Pentagon Position
Sylvia served as director of strategy, plans and policy for the Joint Chiefs of Staff, a position responsible for coordinating military planning for senior US defence leadership and the president.
A Pentagon official, speaking anonymously, alleged that Sylvia had shared sensitive information with journalists. The official also claimed that the general failed three polygraph examinations concerning unauthorised disclosures.
However, other defence officials have disputed aspects of the allegations, and the claims have not been established through judicial proceedings.
Pentagon Refers Alleged Military Leaks to Justice Department
Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell confirmed that personnel action had been taken to protect sensitive information and said the matter had been referred to the Department of Justice for possible legal action.
President Donald Trump, questioned about the dismissal, warned that individuals responsible for leaking classified information could face serious consequences.
The Joint Staff also withdrew an earlier statement recognising Sylvia’s 32 years of military service, saying it did not adequately reflect the circumstances surrounding his departure.
Hegseth Intensifies Crackdown on Classified Information Leaks
Sylvia previously commanded the US Army’s 101st Airborne Division and received several military decorations, including six Bronze Star Medals and a Purple Heart.
His removal follows other dismissals and investigations involving senior Pentagon personnel under Hegseth.
The Defence Department has also introduced stricter restrictions on journalists’ access to military facilities.
The investigation remains ongoing, and no criminal conviction or formal determination of wrongdoing against Sylvia has been announced.
