Defense Sec. Hegseth Fires Army Chief George, Installs LaNeve
Image: فرارو

Defense Sec. Hegseth Fires Army Chief George, Installs LaNeve

03 April, 2026.USA.19 sources

Key Takeaways

  • Hegseth asked Army Chief Gen. Randy George to resign and retire immediately.
  • George's retirement is part of a broader Pentagon leadership shakeup amid the Iran war.
  • The shakeup also ousted two other senior generals in addition to George.

Hegseth Ousts Army Chief

Hegseth fired Army Chief George amid the war with Iran.

George was appointed by Biden and had a term to 2027.

Image from Al-Ain Al-Ikhbariyah
Al-Ain Al-IkhbariyahAl-Ain Al-Ikhbariyah

Hegseth wants someone to implement his vision for the Army.

LaNeve, a close Hegseth aide, will serve as acting chief.

Close Associate LaNeve Steps In

LaNeve was Hegseth’s top military aide before becoming vice chief.

Critics see this as politicization of the military.

Image from Al-Jazeera Net
Al-Jazeera NetAl-Jazeera Net

Two other Army generals were fired simultaneously.

This comes in the middle of an active war with Iran.

No Formal Reason Given

No official explanation was provided for George's ouster.

US defense chief asks Army Chief of Staff Gen

Anadolu AjansıAnadolu Ajansı

George is a combat veteran widely respected as a professional soldier.

His removal has sparked criticism about political loyalty trumping effectiveness.

Pentagon Purge Continues

George's removal is part of a broader Pentagon purge.

Hegseth has fired over a dozen senior officers since taking office.

Image from AP News
AP NewsAP News

Congressional Democrats are demanding briefings on the war’s legality.

More on USA