US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has removed one of the Pentagon’s most senior military planning officials as President Donald Trump considers additional military strikes against Iran, according to CNN.
Lt. Gen. Brett Sylvia, who served as director for strategy, plans and policy on the Joint Staff, is leaving his position abruptly, a spokesperson for Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan Caine confirmed.
The Pentagon has not publicly explained the reason for Sylvia’s departure, and it remains unclear who will replace him.
His removal comes as American military officials prepare for the possibility of renewed operations in the Middle East.
Pentagon Leadership Changes Continue Under Hegseth
Sylvia led the Joint Staff’s J5 directorate, which develops strategic recommendations and military planning advice for senior US leaders.
The office plays an important role in assessing national security risks, coordinating with government agencies and military allies, and supporting decisions about American military operations.
Before taking the position, Sylvia commanded the US Army’s 101st Airborne Division.
Former Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin nominated him for the Joint Staff assignment near the end of the Biden administration.
By Wednesday evening, Sylvia’s official biography had been removed from the Joint Chiefs of Staff website.
In a statement reported by CNN, the Joint Staff thanked Sylvia and his family for his 32 years of military service and wished them well.
His departure adds to a series of senior military leadership changes since Hegseth became defense secretary.
Among the officials previously removed was Army Chief of Staff Gen. Randy George, who was forced into retirement in April.
CNN has also reported that more than two dozen senior military officers have been dismissed during Hegseth’s tenure.
Sylvia’s predecessor, Lt. Gen. Joe McGee, left the same planning position in October 2025 amid reported disagreements with Pentagon leadership.
US Military Prepares for Possible New Iran Operations
The leadership change comes at a sensitive moment for American military planning.
According to CNN, two US officials said American forces in the Middle East could begin potentially significant operations against Iran within 96 hours of receiving an order from Trump.
That assessment concerns military readiness and does not mean an attack has been authorized.
Current and former officials familiar with the discussions believe additional military action remains a possibility before the end of 2026.
However, Trump has not made a final decision about whether to order new strikes.
Officials also cautioned that the president has previously considered military action before deciding against it.
Trump has indicated that no new attack would take place before the November 3 midterm elections.
The administration’s next steps could have significant consequences for regional security and American military involvement in the Middle East.
Sylvia’s removal also raises questions about continuity within the Pentagon’s strategic planning leadership during a period of heightened tensions.
However, no evidence has been publicly presented establishing that his departure was directly connected to disagreements over Iran policy.
For now, the Pentagon faces two separate developments: another change in its senior leadership and continued preparations for possible military operations.
Whether the United States launches additional strikes against Iran will depend on decisions that have not yet been announced.
