Hegseth Cuts Milley’s Access To Military Secrets, Orders Review Of His Record

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has ordered the immediate revocation of retired Gen. Mark Milley’s security clearance and personal security detail, ensuring he no longer has access to sensitive military information. Milley, who has faced accusations of undermining the chain of command, is now being removed from the Pentagon’s security structure.

Hegseth’s decision comes as part of a broader effort to reinforce accountability within the Department of Defense. Milley’s past actions had raised concerns, particularly regarding his unauthorized communications with China’s military leadership. Despite these concerns, Milley was allowed to keep his clearance until now, creating an ongoing security risk.

As part of this move, Hegseth has also launched an Inspector General review into Milley’s record. This investigation will determine whether Milley should be demoted in retirement, with the possibility of losing a star. The review will assess Milley’s handling of military leadership responsibilities and whether his conduct justifies further disciplinary measures.

The Pentagon is also removing Milley’s remaining portrait from its halls. His first official portrait was already taken down on Inauguration Day, and now a second, honoring his time as Army chief of staff, will be removed. Once that is complete, Milley’s presence will be erased from Pentagon leadership displays.

Milley had been under federal protection due to past threats from Iran, but his security detail has now been withdrawn. This step is part of the Trump administration’s commitment to ensuring that former military officials who engaged in questionable actions do not retain undue privileges.

Although Milley received a preemptive pardon from Biden, that does not prevent further action from being taken against him. With his clearance revoked and a full review underway, the Pentagon is now focused on ensuring that classified military intelligence remains secure.