According to US media, Hagel was pressured by Obama to quit, as Pentagon embarks on a new strategy to deal with the Islamic State in Iraq and ISIL.
Announcing the resignation of the defence secretary, flanked by Hagel and Vice president Joe Biden Obama describe Hagel as "Examplary", Calling him critical to a number of national security accomplishments during his tenure, and characterized Hagel's resignation as his own choice.
"If there's one thing I know about Chuck it is that he does not make this or any decision lightly," Obama said from the State Dining Room. He was sure to tell that decision does not come easily to Hagel.
The US president said he was "extraordinary lucky" to have Mr Hagel by his side as defence secretary and praised him for forging a strong bond with US troops.
However, Arizona Sen. John McCain, the expected incoming chairman of the Armed Services Committee, said on local Arizona radio station KFYI 550's "The Mike Broomhead Show" that he spoke with Hagel last week and the Defense secretary was "frustrated."'
Hagel's departure has been rumored to be coming for weeks, and as recently as last week he dodged questions about his continued tenure at the Pentagon.
"First of all, I serve at the pleasure of the President," Hagel told PBS, asked whether he'd continue in the position. "I'm immensely grateful for the opportunity I've had the last two years to work every day for the country and for the men and women who serve this country. I don't get up in the morning and worry about my job. It's not unusual by the way, to change teams at different times."
Pressed on whether he felt he still had Obama's confidence, Hagel said, "Well, I don't think I would be here if I didn't. But you'd have to ask him that. I mean I see him all the time."
Report By - MrLylkyd
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