Pentagon launches investigation into alarming national security leaks

In Washington, D.C., the Pentagon's intelligence and law enforcement arms initiated an investigation to probe alleged leaks of national security information. The decision came following a series of unauthorized disclosures to legacy media outlets. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's chief of staff issued a memo on March 21, 2025, declaring the need for a thorough investigation into recent breaches concerning sensitive communications within the Office of the Secretary of Defense, emphasizing that polygraphs might be utilized throughout this inquiry, adhering to applicable laws and policies. The investigation's objective is to identify and hold accountable those responsible for the unauthorized leaks. The memo indicated the potential referral of identified individuals to law enforcement for prosecution should the investigation reveal their identities. Additionally, President Donald Trump publicly refuted claims that senior adviser Elon Musk would receive a briefing on U.S. military strategies against China, highlighting that no substantial war plans were discussed. Earlier in March 2025, Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem also announced the use of lie detector tests aimed at detecting information leaks within her department. While polygraph examinations are typically seen as unreliable and inadmissible in court proceedings, federal law enforcement agencies frequently employ them for national security clearance processes. This investigation marks a renewed commitment by the Trump administration to address leaks in government, highlighting that leaks have been a persistent issue across multiple administrations. The Pentagon aims to tackle these unauthorized disclosures more aggressively, as they threaten national security and undermine governmental operations.