Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth says the Pentagon will have lawyers review comments made by Sen. Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) after Kelly discussed U.S. weapons stockpiles during a CBS “Face the Nation” appearance. Hegseth accuses Kelly of disclosing classified information from a Pentagon briefing, and he frames the exchange as an extension of a broader dispute between the senator and the administration.
Kelly, a Navy veteran and member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, rejects the allegation. He says the substance of his remarks is not classified and instead reflects information Hegseth himself previously discussed publicly under oath, including testimony about how long it would take to replenish depleted munitions inventories. Kelly also argues that the U.S. has drawn down major categories of munitions during the Iran conflict and warns that replenishment timelines could reduce readiness in potential future conflicts, including in the Pacific.
While multiple outlets report Hegseth has requested a legal review, none describe the investigation as formally announced with confirmed findings. Sources agree the dispute centers on whether Kelly’s TV comments disclose protected information or repeat publicly stated testimony.
