The Pentagon has missed a deadline to release classified videos of Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAPs) to Congress, sparking accusations of a cover-up. Republican Rep. Anna Paulina Luna had requested 46 specific video clips by April 14, 2026, citing potential national security threats from UAP activity near military sites.
Immediate Action & Core Facts
The Pentagon failed to respond to Luna’s letter by the April 14 deadline, prompting criticism from lawmakers and the public. Luna, chair of the Task Force on the Declassification of Federal Secrets, had requested footage of spherical, cigar-shaped, and Tic Tac-like objects recorded by U.S. military platforms over war zones, oceans, and restricted airspace.
Deeper Dive & Context
Background on the Request
Luna’s March 31 letter cited whistleblower testimony that the All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO) holds additional UAP sighting records. The requested videos include incidents near Iran, Syria, U.S. bases, and a 2023 shootdown over Lake Huron. Luna accused the Pentagon of failing to pass her letter to the appropriate authorities, despite President Trump’s authorization for declassification.
Public and Political Reactions
Online commentators criticized the Pentagon’s delay, with some calling for full transparency. Others questioned the motives behind withholding the footage, suggesting it could justify federal spending. Luna, while acknowledging Hegseth’s support for Trump, urged the Pentagon to comply with the request.
National Security Implications
The Task Force emphasized the potential threat posed by UAPs near military assets. A 2021 Pew Research survey found that two-thirds of Americans believe intelligent life likely exists on other planets, highlighting public interest in UAP disclosures.