By Sadiq Abdulfatah

US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth has dismissed the US Army’s Chief of Staff, Randy George, in a move that analysts say may be linked to disagreements over a possible ground war with Iran.

According to geopolitical analyst Shaiel Ben-Ephraim, George was removed after raising strong concerns about the risks of invading Iran. He reportedly warned that such a war would be too costly and difficult to manage, especially given Iran’s terrain and size.

George, who previously served in US wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, is said to have opposed what he viewed as an aggressive military approach toward Tehran. His concerns reportedly created tension with Hegseth, who is believed to support stronger military action.

The disagreement grew as thousands of troops from the 82nd Airborne Division were deployed to the Middle East, a move widely seen as preparation for possible ground operations. Reports suggest George considered the deployment premature and strategically risky.

Hegseth has also criticized senior military leaders for being too cautious and focused on legal limits in warfare. He is said to favor commanders who are ready for immediate and forceful combat operations.

Following George’s removal, Christopher LaNeve was appointed as interim replacement. The decision came shortly after President Donald Trump said military operations against Iran could continue for weeks.

The firing is part of a broader pattern, with several top military officials removed in recent months. These include senior figures from the Air Force, Navy, and intelligence agencies.

Analyst Ben-Ephraim compared the situation to 2003, when General Eric Shinseki was sidelined after warning about the Iraq War. He said the latest move suggests a growing push within the administration toward a possible ground invasion.

However, it remains unclear whether President Trump fully supports such a plan, as some reports suggest he may be cautious due to the political and military risks involved.

Source: Press TV