US Defense Secretary Hegseth removes Lieutenant General Sylvia over leak allegations

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has removed Lieutenant General Brett Sylvia, who served as the director of strategy, plans, and policy at the Pentagon, following allegations of unauthorized disclosure of classified information.

Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell confirmed in a statement via social media that the necessary personnel action was taken following a comprehensive review conducted by the Air Force Office of Special Investigations (OSI). The department stated that this step was necessary to protect sensitive information.

Regarding the investigation process, a senior Pentagon official alleged that Lieutenant General Sylvia failed three separate polygraph tests concerning the disclosure of classified materials. Conversely, a colleague of Sylvia reported that the general categorically denied the accusations leveled against him.

The incident has been referred to the US Department of Justice for a potential criminal investigation. Sylvia's removal is being evaluated as part of the Pentagon's disciplinary process regarding the security of classified data.