Part 11/16:
Additionally, recent revelations about internal security measures—such as proposed gag orders and polygraph tests for Pentagon officials—highlight an escalating crackdown on leaks and dissent. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s push to combat leaks and internal discontent underscores a tension between transparency and national security. While some argue that confidentiality is essential, critics contend that excessive secrecy damages trust and hampers honest debate within the armed forces and government.