News - World: US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth is reportedly experiencing severe anxiety and fear for his safety after the recent shooting death of right-wing political activist, entrepreneur, and media personality Charlie Kirk.

According to sources close to Hegseth, he has become “obsessed” with his personal security, with insiders claiming he is “crawling out of his skin” due to the stress.

Staff members have described Hegseth's behavior as increasingly erratic and "manic," with frequent outbursts and rants.

Reports suggest that this heightened state of agitation has intensified since Kirk's assassination earlier this month in Utah.

Concerns about his well-being have led to heightened security measures, with the Army’s Criminal Investigation Division reallocating agents to protect Hegseth's homes in Minnesota, Tennessee, and Washington, DC.

One source emphasized the unique nature of Hegseth's current state, saying, “There’s a manic quality about him... which is really saying something.”

Amidst escalating tension, Hegseth has made controversial decisions, including an order requiring all military officials above the rank of one-star general to attend a meeting in Virginia, regardless of their overseas postings.

While the meeting has been characterized as a “pep rally” to discuss military standards and the “warrior ethos,” experts worry that pulling leaders away from their posts may expose American forces to vulnerabilities.

Retired Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling shared concerns that this could signal impending changes to national security strategies or potential firings within the military.

In addition to his anxious demeanor, Hegseth has introduced stringent new guidelines limiting press access to the Pentagon.

Reporters are now required to obtain explicit approval before publishing any information gathered at the facility and must adhere to strict regulations on their access.

This significant shift has drawn criticism, with the Pentagon Press Association condemning the rules as “a direct attack on the freedom of the press.”

Hegseth’s relationship with the media has been contentious, as evidenced by his remarks on social media asserting, “The press does not run the Pentagon—the people do.”

His stance has only intensified scrutiny on his administration amid a growing climate of uncertainty.

As Hegseth navigates these tumultuous times, insiders reveal a mix of concern and skepticism regarding his stability and governance.

The Independent has reached out to the Department of War for an official comment but has yet to receive a response.

Charlie Kirk assassination

Charlie Kirk, the conservative activist and co-founder of Turning Point USA (TPUSA), had reportedly been frightened by the pro-Israeli forces before his assassination last month.

Kirk, 31, a staunch supporter of US President Donald Trump, was shot and killed on September 10, 2025 at Utah Valley University during an outdoor “Prove Me Wrong” debate attended by roughly 3,000 people.

The Grayzone reported that Kirk had refused to accept money from Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and was frightened of reprisal by pro-Israel forces before his assassination.

Kirk expressed his opposition to US involvement in Israel’s war of aggression against Iran, voicing doubts about the intelligence community's credibility.

During the May 1, 2025, episode of The Charlie Kirk Show on Rumble, he questioned, "Why are we trusting our intel agencies so quickly? We've only been in charge for a 101 or a 102 days. We're all of a sudden gonna trust the Biden hold of our intel agencies that are telling us Iran is close to a nuclear weapon after they have lied to us at every single corner and every turn? ... How often have they actually been correct about the one in and out thing? Has that ever actually been the case?"

Source: Press TV