Payam Javan: U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth has called the nation’s top military commanders to a Virginia base for a high-level meeting, according to Pentagon officials. The gathering, scheduled for early next week, will bring together generals and admirals from across the globe, though the agenda remains undisclosed. Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell confirmed the event but declined to share details on the number of attendees or topics to be discussed.

At the White House, Vice President JD Vance dismissed speculation over the unusual nature of the meeting, stressing that such gatherings are routine. President Donald Trump added that he would attend “if they want me,” noting that commanders would also tour equipment facilities and review the latest weapons systems. Trump praised the initiative, saying it provides an opportunity for military leaders to strengthen ties and examine new defense capabilities.

The meeting comes after a sweeping directive Hegseth issued in May, ordering significant cuts in the number of senior officers. His plan mandated a 20 percent reduction in four-star positions within the active military, alongside cuts to general officers in the National Guard and other branches. Framing the effort as a push for “strategic readiness,” Hegseth argued that resources should shift from “bloated headquarters” to frontline forces. The shake-up follows President Trump’s executive order earlier this month renaming the Department of Defense to its original title—the Department of War—citing a renewed focus on combat readiness and victory.