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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Lolita C. Baldor

Hegseth says he fired the top military lawyers because they weren't well suited for the jobs

US Saudi Arabia - (Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said Monday that he was replacing the top lawyers for the military services because he didn't think they were “well-suited” to provide recommendations when lawful orders are given.

Speaking at the start of a meeting with Saudi Arabia's defense minister, Hegseth refused to answer a question about why the Trump administration has selected a retired general to be the next Joint Chiefs chairman, when he doesn't meet the legal qualifications for the job.

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