Hegseth dismisses top army strategist over alleged leaks of classified information

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has dismissed Lt Gen Brett Sylvia over allegations that he disclosed classified information to journalists.

• Hegseth dismissed Sylvia, director for strategy, plans and policy on the joint staff, the Pentagon announced on Thursday.
• The Pentagon referred the alleged leak case to the Justice Department for potential criminal action.
• Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell confirmed the dismissal, saying the department acted "to protect sensitive information."
• A Pentagon official said Sylvia failed three polygraph tests over the suspected leaks.