The Pentagon has launched an investigation, including the use of polygraph tests, to identify those responsible for unauthorized leaks. This action follows Elon Musk’s call for legal action against any Defense Department officials disseminating “maliciously false information” regarding his interactions with the military.
In light of recent allegations linked to Musk’s visit to the Pentagon, Joe Kasper, the chief of staff for Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, announced an investigation into the “unauthorized disclosures” of national security information. Kasper stated that individuals identified as perpetrators would be referred to appropriate criminal law enforcement agencies for potential prosecution.
Musk, who holds significant defense contracts, visited the Pentagon on Friday to discuss topics such as cost-cutting and innovation. Prior to his visit, controversy arose when The New York Times reported that Musk was scheduled to receive a top-secret briefing on the U.S. military’s strategic planning concerning possible conflicts with China.
According to The Times, which based its report on multiple unnamed U.S. officials, Musk was set to review sensitive military strategies related to China, raising concerns due to his extensive business interests in the region. Musk’s comments regarding China, particularly his reference to Taiwan as “an integral part of China” and his suggestion for the island to become an administrative zone, have also sparked unease.
Both President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Hegseth denied any intentions of providing Musk with such a high-level briefing. During a meeting in the Oval Office on Friday, Trump acknowledged the potential conflict of interest involving Musk, explaining why such a briefing would not be granted to him.
Amidst the heightened scrutiny, Musk publicly expressed on X, a social media platform he owns, his demand for the prosecution of Pentagon officials leaking misleading information to the media.
Hegseth has been a prominent advocate for Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency, highlighting the fiscal savings achieved through collaborations with DOGE staffers.
Kasper detailed that the investigation into leaks would begin immediately and result in a report to the Secretary of Defense. This report will encompass a comprehensive record of unauthorized disclosures within the Department of Defense and propose measures to enhance countermeasures against such incidents. The memo was issued on March 21.
