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Former U.S. military officials are voicing concern over a wave of departures of experienced leaders from the Pentagon under Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, warning that the exodus comes at a precarious time amid ongoing tensions with Iran and worries about depleted military stockpiles. Retired four-star General Peter Chiarelli was among those interviewed about the leadership turnover and its potential impact on military readiness. Critics argue the departures could weaken institutional knowledge and decision-making within the Pentagon at a sensitive geopolitical moment, adding to broader scrutiny of Hegseth's tenure as defense secretary.