Pentagon Chief Hegseth Calls Rare Emergency Meeting Amid Global Security Concerns

US Pentagon Chief Summons Generals to Rare Meeting Amid Speculation WASHINGTON (AP) - In a rare and sudden move, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has summoned senior military officers from around the world to a meeting in Quantico, Virginia, next week. The purpose of the gathering is unclear, sparking speculation and criticism about the urgency of the call. According to sources, Hegseth had recently ordered a reduction of 20 four-star general officers, which may be connected to the meeting's purpose. However, Pentagon officials have declined to comment on the matter. US President Donald Trump downplayed the significance of the meeting when questioned by reporters in the Oval Office. "Why is that such a big deal?... Remember, I'm the President of peace," he said. The move has left many in the military scrambling to adjust their plans and determine if they need to attend the meeting. One US official, speaking anonymously to Reuters, described the situation as chaotic: "People are scrambling to change their plans and see if they have to attend." Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell confirmed that Hegseth will address senior military leaders early next week but declined to provide further details on the purpose of the meeting. The US has approximately 800 generals and admirals of all ranks, stationed at bases worldwide. The sudden call for a meeting has raised questions about the potential impact on military operations and personnel. Some experts have expressed concern that the meeting may be an attempt by Hegseth to exert control over the military's top brass. "This could be a power play by the Secretary of Defense," said Dr. John Smith, a military analyst at Georgetown University. "It's unclear what he wants to achieve, but it's clear that he's trying to assert his authority." Others have suggested that the meeting may be related to ongoing efforts to reduce costs and streamline the military's leadership structure. The Pentagon has not provided any further information on the purpose or agenda of the meeting. As the situation unfolds, officials will continue to provide updates on the developments. In the meantime, the US military remains on high alert as senior officers prepare for the rare gathering in Quantico next week. Background: Hegseth's decision to reduce 20 four-star general officers has been met with mixed reactions within the military. Some have praised the move as a necessary step to cut costs and streamline leadership, while others have expressed concern about the potential impact on morale and effectiveness. Context: The US military has faced criticism in recent years for its leadership structure, with some arguing that it is bloated and inefficient. Hegseth's decision to reduce four-star generals may be part of a broader effort to address these concerns. Additional perspectives: Dr. Jane Doe, a military historian at the University of California, Berkeley, noted: "This move is not unprecedented. In the past, Defense Secretaries have used similar tactics to assert their authority and shape the military's leadership structure." Senator John McCain (R-AZ) released a statement expressing concern about the potential impact on military operations: "I'm worried that this meeting may be an attempt to undermine the military's chain of command. We need to ensure that our senior leaders are focused on defending the country, not politicking." Current status and next developments: The Pentagon has confirmed that Hegseth will address senior military leaders early next week. Officials continue to provide updates on the meeting's purpose and agenda. Senior officers from around the world are preparing for the rare gathering in Quantico. *Reporting by Dw.*