Some of the highest-ranking U.S. military officials were subjected to polygraph tests as part of a sweeping leak investigation after sensitive details about weapons stockpiles were reported in the media, U.S. officials told CBS News. President Trump was reportedly furious about the leaks. A very small group had access to the classified munitions information, raising concerns about potential foreign intelligence involvement. While polygraphs are routine for top officials, the mass volume of tests administered earlier this summer was extremely rare, including U.S. Central Command officials and combatant commanders. No one failed the leak-related questions. Chief Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell stated the Department takes all leaks seriously. Not all senior officials were tested, notably Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Gen. Dan Caine. The New York Times first reported the polygraph tests.

Weeks into the Iran war, news outlets reported on the rapid depletion of advanced munitions. In July, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced a joint Pentagon-Justice Department task force to identify and prosecute leakers. Hegseth granted the Office of General Counsel, led by Earl Matthews, broad authority to demand records and assistance, with personnel instructed to respond within two days. "Leaked information risks lives," Hegseth said.

The expanded effort followed Justice Department subpoenas of New York Times reporters over reporting on security issues aboard Trump's Qatari-donated Air Force One. The subpoenas were later withdrawn after a contentious court hearing. Polygraphs are standard for officials with top-secret access, typically administered every few years for clearance recertification.