In a surprising move, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has stripped Gen. Mark Milley of his security detail and clearance. This decision, which comes on Hegseth’s second day in office, marks an unprecedented step against the former top U.S. general, who has been a vocal critic of former President Donald Trump.

Hegseth also ordered the Defense Department’s inspector general to look into Milley’s “conduct” to determine if his rank should be reviewed. While the statement didn’t specify the nature of the conduct in question, the move has sparked significant attention.

Milley, who served as chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, has had a rocky relationship with Trump. Their ties worsened during Trump’s final months in office, with Milley calling him a “fascist” and accusing him of acting like a “wannabe dictator.” Trump, in turn, has accused Milley of treason over phone calls with China’s military leadership in 2020, though Milley maintains the calls were coordinated with other officials.

Despite Trump’s accusations, Milley has remained a prominent figure in the military. Earlier this year, President Joe Biden issued a blanket pardon for Milley, protecting him from potential legal actions. Milley expressed gratitude, vowing to remain loyal to the Constitution “until my dying breath.”

The inspector general’s investigation could still have serious consequences, potentially leading to a reduction in Milley’s rank if wrongdoing is found. This comes after Trump fired inspectors general from multiple federal agencies shortly after taking office, a move criticized for lacking transparency.

This latest action against Milley is part of a broader pattern of Trump targeting officials who opposed him during his presidency. In his first days back in office, Trump also revoked security details for former officials like John Bolton and Mike Pompeo, citing threats from Iran.

The drama surrounding Milley highlights the ongoing tensions within the U.S. military and political landscape, as figures from the Trump era continue to face scrutiny and retribution.

This story has been updated with additional details.