Story perspectives

Pentagon chief Hegseth accused of firing dissenting officers

7/25/2026

Summary

Story summary

Officers accuse Secretary Pete Hegseth of firing them for questioning his orders.
Since he took office early last year, nearly three dozen officers—disproportionately women, people of color, generals, and Afghanistan-withdrawal staff—have been fired or sidelined.
Pentagon spokesperson Joel Valdez said the claim is false and promotions for 40 officers were blocked.
Hegseth was grilled by the Senate Appropriations Committee while seeking $67 billion in Iran-war funding after $37.5 billion had been spent.

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Story summary

Officers accuse Secretary Pete Hegseth of firing them for questioning his orders.
Since he took office early last year, nearly three dozen officers—disproportionately women, people of color, generals, and Afghanistan-withdrawal staff—have been fired or sidelined.
Pentagon spokesperson Joel Valdez said the claim is false and promotions for 40 officers were blocked.
Hegseth was grilled by the Senate Appropriations Committee while seeking $67 billion in Iran-war funding after $37.5 billion had been spent.