The United States has reportedly removed its top military planner, Lieutenant General Brett Sylvia, from his position amid speculation that President Donald Trump is considering renewed large-scale strikes against Iran. 

According to The Atlantic, Sylvia was removed this week from his role as head of Strategy, Plans and Policy on the Joint Chiefs of Staff, citing unnamed Defence Department officials. No official reason was given for his departure, and no replacement has been announced. The reported removal is the latest in a series of high-profile military leadership changes since Trump returned to the White House. 

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said last month that the administration had reduced the number of generals and admirals by 20 per cent, describing the move as an effort to strengthen accountability and refocus the military on combat readiness. The development comes as Trump is reportedly weighing the possibility of fresh military action against Iran following the November third US midterm elections. 

Last week, the President hinted at the possibility of further strikes, referring to the earlier US-Israeli military operation against Tehran, which took place in February and triggered the conflict. However, the White House has not publicly confirmed any decision to launch another major military operation against Iran.