Pentagon Executive Under Investigation for Alleged Breach of Confidential Information

Pentagon emblem between two flags in Washington office

Pentagon advisor Dan Caldwell has been suspended and removed from his position amid an investigation into unauthorized leaks of classified information, raising serious questions about security protocols within Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s inner circle.

Key Takeaways

  • Dan Caldwell, a key advisor to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, has been placed on administrative leave and removed from the Pentagon during an investigation into unauthorized disclosures.
  • Caldwell, a Marine Corps and Iraq war veteran, was involved in communications with the National Security Council regarding Yemen strikes that were later leaked to The Atlantic.
  • A memo from Hegseth’s chief of staff mentioned the potential use of polygraphs and called for criminal prosecution of those responsible for leaks.
  • Caldwell has previously expressed controversial views on U.S. military policy, including calling the Iraq War a “monstrous crime” and questioning U.S. support for Israel.
  • The Pentagon has not disclosed details about the specific nature of the unauthorized information or its recipients.

Pentagon Investigation Leads to Removal

The Department of Defense has placed Dan Caldwell, a senior advisor to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, on administrative leave following an investigation into unauthorized disclosures of sensitive information. Caldwell was escorted from the Pentagon as the probe continues into what officials have only described as an “unauthorized disclosure.” While specific details about the nature of the leaked information and its recipients remain undisclosed, the action signals serious concerns about information security within the highest levels of defense leadership.

Caldwell played a significant role in Hegseth’s team, participating in high-level discussions with the National Security Council regarding military strikes against Houthi forces in Yemen. Reuters reported the suspension based on information from unidentified sources familiar with the matter. The Pentagon’s swift action to remove Caldwell indicates the seriousness with which defense officials are treating potential security breaches, especially those that may compromise national security operations.

Caldwell’s Background and Controversial Views

Before joining the Pentagon, Caldwell established himself as a Marine Corps veteran with combat experience in Iraq. His professional background includes work with Concerned Veterans for America, an organization with strong connections to Republican lawmakers. Despite his military service, Caldwell has expressed views that have raised eyebrows within defense circles, particularly his criticism of American military interventions and his advocacy for a policy of restraint rather than global primacy.

“I think our pursuit of primacy has ultimately made us weaker as a country.” – Dan Caldwell

Notably, Caldwell has been outspoken in his condemnation of the Iraq War, despite having served in the conflict. In previous statements, he described the war as “criminal” and “a monstrous crime.” These positions, along with his expressed disagreement with U.S. military assistance to Israel, placed him somewhat at odds with traditional conservative defense positions. His involvement in a Signal chat discussing strikes on Houthis in Yemen, which was subsequently leaked to The Atlantic, has now placed him at the center of the current investigation.

Pentagon’s Response to Security Breach

The Pentagon’s reaction to the suspected leak has been decisive. A memo from Joe Kasper, Hegseth’s chief of staff, called for a thorough investigation into leaks of national security information. The memo mentioned potential polygraph examinations and emphasized the seriousness with which the department views unauthorized disclosures. The Pentagon has made it clear that maintaining the integrity of sensitive information remains a top priority, with administrative actions being only the first step in addressing security concerns.

“I expect to be informed immediately if this effort results in information identifying a party responsible for an unauthorized disclosure, and that such information will be referred to the appropriate criminal law enforcement entity for criminal prosecution” – Joe Kasper

Defense officials have emphasized that Caldwell’s suspension is specifically related to the investigation into unauthorized disclosures and is separate from recent federal firings under the current administration. While the investigation continues, the Pentagon has maintained limited public communication regarding details, with an administration official stating only that “the investigation remains ongoing.” This approach reflects standard protocol for handling sensitive matters of national security while ensuring proper procedures are followed.

Sources:

  1. Hegseth adviser placed on leave after investigation into Pentagon leaks
  2. Hegseth Advisor Who Was Included in Leaked Signal Text Chain Escorted From Pentagon, Placed on Leave

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR