Since taking office at the start of President Donald Trump's second term, Hegseth has reshaped the military’s top ranks through firings and demotions, often targeting women and people of color, according to The Washington Post.
In April, he dismissed Army Chief of Staff General Randy George, and just before the war with Iran began, he sacked Joint Chiefs Chairman General Charles Brown Jr. and Navy Admiral Lisa Franchetti.
The war, which began on 28 February, has entered its seventh month, and a Pentagon report released earlier this month revealed higher-than-expected damage to bases and greater weapons losses, raising questions about the timing of the leadership cuts.
The cuts could affect hundreds of current and rising leaders, and critics warn that removing senior commanders during an active conflict may disrupt operational readiness, though the Pentagon has yet to respond to AFP.
Hegseth’s announcement is scheduled for Wednesday, and the military community will likely convene a meeting of senior officials to discuss the implications, with a formal vote expected next month.