Approximately 50 members of the US military's Joint Staff underwent polygraph tests to identify sources of classified leaks
The administration announced that approximately 50 members of the US military's Joint Staff were subjected to lie detector tests to identify the source of unauthorized media leaks. The inquiry focused on whether civilian and military personnel leaked classified details regarding dwindling ammunition reserves, particularly long-range missiles and Patriot air defence interceptors, which have been strained by active military operations involving Iran. Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell stated that the department takes all leaks of classified national security information extremely seriously and investigates accordingly. While polygraph tests are common for high-ranking officials, the scale of this investigation is considered unprecedented for the top ranks of the US armed forces. President Trump has publicly expressed frustration over the leaks, branding critical media coverage regarding the munition shortages as "treasonous." Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has led the effort to crack down on disclosures, forming a joint task force with the Justice Department to identify and prosecute leakers. The administration announced that the Joint Staff, which consists of 1,500 to 2,000 staff members, plays a key role in coordinating operational strategy and war planning.
Sources
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Pentagon polygraphs dozens of US military staff over media leaks
Al Jazeera
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Top military officials faced polygraphs over leaks of sensitive information on weapons stockpiles, sources say
CBS News
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Report: Members of US military’s Joint Staff polygraphed over leaks on munition shortages caused by Iran war
The Times of Israel