US polygraphs 50 officers after leaks on ammunition shortages

US government investigators subjected around 50 officers and staff members from the Joint Chiefs of Staff to polygraph tests following media leaks about shortages in key ammunition stockpiles due to the conflict with Iran, according to sources cited by The New York Times.

The tests were conducted in August after reports revealed declining reserves of long-range missiles and Patriot interceptor missiles.

Investigators questioned the officers and staff about disclosing classified information to the media, particularly regarding the reduction in US ammunition stockpiles.

The newspaper noted that this move is unprecedented in modern US military history, with no prior instance of mass polygraph testing at such a high level. Retired Admiral Donald J. Guter described the measure as unprecedented in his experience.

Pentagon spokesperson Sean Barnell stated that the department does not comment on personnel matters or investigations, but takes national security leaks seriously and conducts necessary inquiries, emphasizing the importance of protecting classified information for the security of the United States and its forces.

These actions come amid pressure from US President Donald Trump to intensify the pursuit of leakers, describing critical media coverage of ammunition shortages as "treason."

The situation has deepened mistrust within the Pentagon, especially under Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who has blocked the promotions of dozens of officials and dismissed the publisher and editor-in-chief of the government newspaper Stars and Stripes, amid criticism of his leadership and media coverage of military affairs.