Leaked SDOB Memo Shows U.S. Reserves Stretched Thin

A leaked classified document described by Slate and reported in the Washington Post shows top U.S. military leaders warning Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth that diverted ships, aircraft, and missiles to the Iran war have left Europe, the Pacific, and South America commands—plus the Navy—without enough resources to handle a broader conflict; several chiefs issued non-concur, while others warned that readiness is at greater risk if the Iran war continues. The piece also highlights broader turbulence around Hegseth’s leadership, including promotion blocks and policy moves seen as loyalty-driven, raising questions about civilian control and potential impacts on U.S. deterrence.