The recent actions of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth are drawing significant scrutiny after reports emerged that he shared sensitive airstrike information through unsecured Signal chat applications. This incident raises serious concerns about the potential leakage of classified military details.

Details of the Incident

According to NBC News, Hegseth posted launch and bomb drop timings of U.S. airstrikes targeting Houthi forces in Yemen, information deemed highly classified. This data was reportedly sourced from secure communications within U.S. Central Command. An anonymous source confirmed to The Associated Press that the information released in the secondary chat was consistent with what was shared in a previous chat involving members of President Donald Trump’s National Security Council.

A Pattern of Breaches

This marks the second instance in which Hegseth’s handling of chat communications has come under fire. The first chat inadvertently included a journalist, prompting an inspector general investigation within the Defense Department.

While Hegseth has not explicitly admitted to creating the second chat, which included numerous personal contacts such as family and legal representatives, he has pointed to leaks from former staff members as the source of the information disseminated.

Reactions from Military Officials

Despite Hegseth’s insistence that the information shared was not classified, experts suggest otherwise. Former Defense Secretary Leon Panetta remarked, “It is unheard of to have a Secretary of Defense committing these kind of serious security breaches.” Panetta emphasized that the specifics regarding military operations are among the most sensitive types of information within the Department of Defense.

Ongoing Changes within Hegseth’s Circle

Amid these developments, Hegseth has reportedly restructured his inner circle, dismissing or transferring several aides and staff members. His recent remarks suggest growing distrust within his team as he attributes the leaks to individuals he once relied upon.

Notably, recent departures include aides who had worked closely with Hegseth for years, further fueling the atmosphere of suspicion and concern about internal security.