Secret Pentagon meeting draws scrutiny as insiders question Hegseth's plans

A reported move by Secretary of War Pete Hegseth to convene a secret meeting at Quantico next week has drawn scrutiny from defense officials and lawmakers. Multiple defense sources told the Daily Mail that the session would pull nearly all top generals and flag officers to the base on Tuesday afternoon, a gathering described by some insiders as a test of command and posture.

The purpose of the meeting remains undisclosed, cloaked in secrecy even by Washington standards, and details have not been publicly confirmed. Critics warn that pulling a broad cohort of senior officers from their posts could create security vulnerabilities or operational confusion, arguing the move may be more symbolic than strategic.

Defenders of the plan, including a source close to Hegseth, say safety precautions are in place to prevent compromising ongoing operations. They said the Pentagon hand-picked attendees and limited participation to reduce risk, while aiming to maximize meaningful discussion on policy and postures.

Former senior military officials who spoke to outlets described the episode as outsized and potentially dangerous for messaging. One former defense official told the Daily Mail the episode shows Hegseth is 'out of depth' and could undermine how the military's chain of command operates. They speculated the session could lead to firings or strategic shifts.

President Donald Trump publicly defended Hegseth on questions about the invitation, saying in the Oval Office that he loves it and that it's fine to have friendly relations with generals and admirals from around the world. He offered to attend if they want him. A source close to Hegseth said the mystery surrounding the meeting is deliberate, part of a strategy to keep opponents guessing and maintain a sense of drama around the operation.

At least publicly, the Pentagon and White House did not provide formal comment on the secrecy. The Daily Mail reached out to the Pentagon for comment.