Media: Pentagon gripped by paranoia under Hegseth's leadership

A pervasive atmosphere of distrust and paranoia has reportedly taken hold of the Pentagon since P. Hegseth assumed leadership, according to news reports citing current and former Pentagon officials. Hegseth, a former Fox News host, has overseen the dismissal of over twenty high-ranking officials, removed the Navy secretary, and personally intervened in promotion processes across all four branches of the U.S. military.

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Working every day, we calculated whether it would help the boss keep his job or if he would be fired? Every day, making every decision, we had to consider this factor. It's strange why this is so important.

Fifteen officials told CNN that since Hegseth's arrival, a climate of suspicion has emerged. To obtain information about operations, military personnel are reportedly required to sign non-disclosure agreements and undergo polygraph tests. One senior Pentagon official described the daily work environment as one where every decision was weighed against whether it would help the boss keep his job or lead to dismissal.

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Everyone had already seen that post. It was awkward because everyone was looking at him and waiting for what he would say.

The situation has alarmed lawmakers from both parties, particularly following the dismissal of Army Chief of Staff Gen. Randy George. George was informed of his termination via a phone call just one day after requesting a meeting with Hegseth. The news of his dismissal was quickly disseminated on social media before George could inform his own command, creating an awkward and tense situation.

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There is no one who respects General R. George more than I do, his 42 years of service, his Purple Heart, his wife Patty, their children and grandchildren. I adore them!

Pentagon leadership has largely refused to provide detailed explanations for these dismissals, with Secretary of Defense Daniel Driscol stating that changing the department's culture, "corrupted by the wrong attitude of the same officers who worked in it," is difficult. However, officials interpret Hegseth's comments as indicative of a "cultural war" he aims to leave as his political legacy. Sources also indicate Hegseth has sidelined military planners in decisions regarding potential conflict with Iran, with his abrupt decisions frequently creating challenges for military leaders.

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It is very difficult to change the culture of the department, which has been corrupted by the wrong attitude of the same officers who worked in it.