Hegseth Fires Pentagon Strategist Over Classified Leak Allegations
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Published by: Just the News
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October 29, 2026: October 29, 2026: Later article #11380 repeated the same Brett Sylvia firing covered here and was withdrawn with a permanent redirect to this original article. Accusations of leaking classified material are allegations, not findings of guilt.
Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has fired Lt. Gen. Brett Sylvia, a senior Pentagon strategist, following an investigation into allegations of leaking classified information about the Iran and Ukraine conflicts. According to a Department of War official cited by Fox News, Sylvia failed three polygraph exams related to the claims and the probe has been referred to the Justice Department. The official said Sylvia allegedly met with journalists outside the Pentagon, violating Hegseth’s policy requiring reporters to be escorted into the building.
Sylvia, who served as director of strategy, plans and policy for the Joint Chiefs of Staff, was a key adviser to Hegseth. A Pentagon spokesman expressed gratitude for his 32 years of service, stating the Joint Staff wishes him and his family well.
The investigation into the leaks is now under the jurisdiction of the Justice Department. No formal charges have been filed, and Sylvia has not responded to media inquiries. The Pentagon has not confirmed whether other officials are under review.
Fox News and Yahoo News both report the incident, with details consistent across sources, including the timeline and allegations of unauthorized meetings with journalists. The event occurred on October 29, 2026, as reported in multiple outlets.
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