Pentagon Conducts Rare Polygraph Testing of Joint Staff Following Munitions Leak Reports

The Pentagon subjected approximately 50 military officers and civilian employees of the Joint Staff to polygraph tests in August as part of an investigation into leaks of classified information. According to reports from The New York Times and CBS News, the inquiry focused on whether personnel leaked details to journalists regarding the depletion of U.S. munitions stockpiles, specifically long range missiles and Patriot interceptors, during the conflict with Iran. The Joint Staff consists of between 1,500 and 2,000 personnel who coordinate military operations and policy globally.

Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell declined to comment on internal personnel matters but stated that the department takes the leak of national security information extremely seriously. President Donald Trump has pressured officials to aggressively find those responsible, describing reports of munitions shortages as 100 percent false and treasonous. While CBS News noted that polygraphs are sometimes routine for high ranking officials, sources told the network that the scale of this specific operation was extremely rare. Two sources told CBS News that no one failed the questions regarding leaks to the media.

Some reports suggest the investigation served a broader purpose beyond identifying leakers. The New York Times reported that the move was intended to intimidate and deter other employees from disclosing information in the future. Additionally, some reports link the internal tension to the management style of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who has allegedly ousted or blocked the promotions of at least 80 senior officials. The investigation into leaks also involves the FBI and the Department of Justice.