Pentagon Report Raises Concerns Over Hegseth’s Use of Signal App

A recent report from the Pentagon’s inspector general has revealed that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth jeopardized U.S. personnel and operations by using the Signal messaging app to share sensitive information regarding military strikes against Yemen’s Houthi militants. This finding has significant implications, as it raises questions about the security protocols followed within the Pentagon.

The report, according to two individuals familiar with the details, concluded that while Hegseth has the authority to declassify information, he violated Pentagon policy by conducting official business on a personal device. The investigation also recommended enhanced training for Pentagon officials to prevent similar incidents in the future. Hegseth opted not to participate in an interview with the inspector general but submitted a written statement defending his actions.

In the statement, Hegseth maintained that he was authorized to declassify information and insisted that he communicated only what he believed would not compromise the mission. The scrutiny surrounding Hegseth intensified following a request from lawmakers for an independent inquiry into his use of Signal, particularly in light of allegations regarding a follow-up military strike that allegedly resulted in civilian casualties.

Details of the Investigation and Military Implications

The investigation was prompted by concerns raised by both Democratic and some Republican lawmakers who expressed alarm that sharing specific details of military operations on an unsecured platform could endanger the lives of U.S. personnel. It became public knowledge that Hegseth had disclosed critical timings for airstrikes in at least two Signal chats prior to the execution of those attacks.

Significantly, Hegseth’s communications were exposed when journalist Jeffrey Goldberg of The Atlantic was inadvertently added to a Signal group chat by former national security adviser Mike Waltz. This chat included prominent figures such as Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and was convened to discuss military actions planned for March 15. Hegseth also created another Signal chat involving 13 individuals, including family members, where he relayed similar sensitive information.

Despite the app’s encryption, it is not sanctioned for sharing classified information, raising serious concerns about operational security. Current and former military officials have indicated that the specificity of the details shared would not have been permissible on an unsecured device.

Political Repercussions and Ongoing Investigations

The report has been delivered to lawmakers who can review it in a classified setting at the Capitol. A partially redacted version is expected to be released publicly soon. Hegseth’s critics argue that had a lower-ranking military official committed similar lapses, they would likely face disciplinary action.

The investigation into Hegseth was initiated at the request of Senator Roger Wicker, the Republican chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, and Senator Jack Reed, the committee’s top Democrat. Concerns are further amplified by the backdrop of the ongoing conflict in Yemen, where the Houthi rebels have escalated attacks against various targets since late 2023, impacting international trade routes significantly.

Hegseth has characterized the investigation as a politically motivated effort, expressing distrust towards the inspector general. The inquiry relied heavily on screenshots of Signal chats published by The Atlantic, as Hegseth reportedly could only provide a limited number of his messages.

During a congressional hearing, Hegseth faced questioning regarding the potential sharing of classified information, yet he refrained from directly addressing whether he would accept personal accountability if the findings proved detrimental. The issue continues to be a topic of heated debate, given the serious implications for U.S. military operations and personnel safety.

As the situation unfolds, the Pentagon has not issued immediate comments regarding the report. The outcome of this investigation could have lasting effects on communication policies within the military and the handling of sensitive information.