US President Donald Trump has reportedly sought advice from close advisers about the performance of Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Dan Caine amid the war with Iran.
According to a report by The Atlantic, Trump has asked questions about Hegseth's performance and the military strategy pursued during the conflict. The report said the possibility of removing the defence secretary from his position may be under consideration. Trump has also reportedly sought opinions about Caine's performance.
The report suggested that the consultations could precede changes within the administration. However, no final decision to remove either official has been confirmed.
Hegseth and Caine have been advising Trump on military strategy during the conflict. According to The Atlantic, the president has been weighing different options for after the US midterm elections, including renewed strikes against Iran or ending the war. The options reportedly range from several days to several weeks of further military action.
The White House pushed back against concerns about the officials' standing. Spokesperson Anna Kelly told The Atlantic that Trump and the White House had full confidence in both Hegseth and Caine, adding that they were aligned with the president's mission.
For now, reports of possible leadership changes remain based on reported consultations and speculation. The White House has publicly expressed confidence in both officials.
