Sanaa: The US administration, particularly the Department of Defense, has been facing significant turmoil, leading to a series of resignations and dismissals. Nearly a dozen high-ranking military officials have resigned, raising questions about the management of the Pentagon under the leadership of a former Fox News personality who assumed office three months ago.
According to Yemen News Agency, the Chief of Staff of the US Department of Defense, Joe Casper, has voluntarily left his position. This development has intensified the instability within the Defense Department that has persisted for weeks. The departure of Casper, who was a close associate of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, comes amid internal conflicts, the dismissal of political appointees, and increasing scrutiny over the Secretary's management of the Pentagon.
The Washington Post revealed that the recent wave of departures includes high-ranking officials such as the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the Navy's top admiral, indicating a level of instability rarely observed at the Pentagon. Defense officials have described Secretary Hegseth as paranoid and isolated, relying on a small circle of trusted aides while focusing intensely on media coverage of his decisions.
Additionally, last week saw the firing of three senior advisers - Dan Caldwell, Colin Carroll, and Darren Selnick - who were accused of leaking information, a charge they have denied. John Ullyot, a former staffer, characterized the situation as a "month of total chaos" at the Pentagon, highlighting a near-collapse in its upper ranks.
Casper, an Air Force veteran, previously served as chief of staff for former Congressman Duncan D. Hunter before holding various positions in the first Trump administration. His departure is part of a broader review by the Department of Defense Inspector General into Hegseth's handling of classified information.
Meanwhile, US senators have demanded explanations from Defense Secretary Hegseth regarding civilian casualties in US airstrikes in Yemen. Democratic senators have criticized the Trump administration for the high civilian toll, challenging President Trump's claims of being a peacemaker.
The Washington Post also reported growing concern among readers about the impact of US military operations in Yemen, with criticisms directed at the Trump administration for perceived negligence toward civilian life and potential anti-American sentiment.