Hegseth Removes Top Joint Staff Planner as Trump Weighs Iran Strikes

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth removed Army Lt. Gen. Brett Sylvia from his post as director of the Joint Staff’s Strategy, Plans and Policy directorate, known as the J5, as President Donald Trump weighs possible renewed strikes on Iran. The Joint Staff confirmed Sylvia’s departure and thanked him for 32 years of service, but gave no public reason for the decision. The J5 develops strategy, plans and policy recommendations for the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, helping inform military advice to the president and other national leaders. Sylvia had held the position since 2025 and previously commanded the Army’s 101st Airborne Division. The Joint Staff has not announced who will take over his responsibilities. A defense official told the Associated Press there was no immediate replacement. The leadership change comes as the administration considers its next steps in the conflict with Iran. Two diplomats briefed on the matter said U.S. officials had urged countries in the region to prepare for possible renewed military action after the November 3 midterm elections and for possible Iranian retaliation. They said Trump had not made a final decision. A U.S. official cited by...