Pentagon launches leak investigation amid Elon Musk controversy

The Pentagon has launched a polygraph investigation to identify the source of an alleged data leak. This follows criticism from billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk, who accused officials of spreading "false information" about his military ties. The inquiry, first reported by Bloomberg on Saturday, addresses concerns over unauthorized disclosures of sensitive national security details.

The probe was initiated after Joe Kasper, chief of staff to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, called for an investigation into the leaks and urged that those responsible face criminal prosecution. In an internal memo released late Friday, Kasper emphasized the need for accountability and recommended steps to prevent future unauthorized disclosures.

"The investigation into leaks will commence immediately and culminate in a report to the Secretary of Defense. The report will include a complete record of unauthorized disclosures within the Department of Defense and recommendations to improve such efforts," Kasper wrote.

Musk, whose companies hold billions of dollars in defense contracts, visited the Pentagon on Friday to discuss cost-cutting and innovation. However, his visit was overshadowed by controversy sparked by The New York Times, which reported that Musk was set to receive top-secret briefings on U.S. military strategies in case of a potential conflict with China.

The report cited multiple unnamed sources and raised concerns about Musk’s access to classified material, particularly given his extensive business dealings and previous remarks on China. Musk has asserted that Taiwan is an integral part of China, which aligns with Beijing’s position and has drawn scrutiny from U.S. policymakers.

Despite the claims, President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Hegseth denied that Musk was granted access to highly classified intelligence. In response to the controversy, Musk took to his social media platform, X, to call for legal action against Pentagon officials he accused of leaking misleading information. His remarks have intensified the debate over handling sensitive national security information and the implications of private sector figures being involved in high-level defense discussions.