Recent reports indicate that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth utilized the messaging app Signal to discuss details related to a military airstrike against Houthi militants in Yemen. This communication reportedly included both family members and close aides, raising questions about the security protocols surrounding classified information.

Details of the Communication

According to The New York Times, Hegseth created a second Signal chat group, named “Defense Team Huddle,” which included 13 participants, among them his wife, Jennifer Hegseth, a former producer at Fox News, and his brother, Phil Hegseth, a Pentagon liaison. This was separate from a previously established chat involving high-level officials of the Trump administration.

A source familiar with the matter, who requested anonymity, confirmed these details to The Associated Press. The second chat, like the first, contained potentially sensitive information, including details of warplane launch times for the operation against Houthi militants.

Official Responses and Investigations

The White House addressed the allegations, dismissing the situation as a “non-story” and asserting that “no classified information was shared.” Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly attributed the claims to disgruntled former officials seeking to undermine the administration.

However, the dissemination of operational details in these chats has prompted criticism from lawmakers. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer expressed concerns about Hegseth’s handling of sensitive information, calling for his dismissal. Hegseth has previously stated that no classified plans were discussed during these conversations.

Ongoing Investigations

In light of these revelations, the Defense Department’s acting inspector general has initiated an investigation into the use of Signal for discussing military matters. This inquiry comes at the behest of the Senate Armed Services Committee leadership, who have prompted scrutiny over Hegseth’s actions.

Jack Reed, the committee’s ranking Democratic member, has also highlighted the need for Hegseth to clarify the content of the discussions, which could jeopardize the safety of American servicemembers.

Current Pentagon Atmosphere

The situation at the Pentagon appears tense, with several key officials close to Hegseth departing amid a broader investigation into potential leaks of sensitive information. Notable departures include aides Dan Caldwell and Colin Carroll, who were escortingly removed from their posts amidst allegations of misconduct related to the leak investigation.

The implications of Hegseth’s actions—and the subsequent handling of sensitive communications—continue to foster an environment of uncertainty within the upper echelons of the Department of Defense.