Pentagon investigates Hegseth over use of Signal app to discuss Houthi attack plans

The Pentagon’s inspector general has opened an investigation into Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth for potentially violating department policy by discussing military attack plans in a private Signal chat, as reported by The Atlantic.

The probe will focus on whether Hegseth inappropriately shared operational plans for a U.S. offensive against the Houthis in Yemen and will also assess adherence to classification and records retention requirements, according to a memo from Inspector General Steven Stebbins.

The inquiry was initiated following a request from the Senate’s Armed Services Committee leadership last week. Chairman Roger Wicker and ranking member Jack Reed raised concerns about the alleged discussion of classified information related to sensitive military matters in Yemen on an unclassified network.

Hegseth was asked to designate two points of contact for the investigation, which will take place in Washington, D.C., and at U.S. Central Command headquarters in Tampa, Florida.

Last month, Hegseth shared details about a potential offensive campaign against Yemen’s Houthi rebels with key presidential advisers through a Signal chat initiated by national security adviser Michael Waltz. The conversation inadvertently included Atlantic editor-in-chief Jeffrey Goldberg.

Stebbins, the acting Pentagon watchdog, assumed the role after President Trump removed 17 inspectors general, including the Defense Department’s IG, shortly after taking office.

During the Signal chat, Hegseth mentioned the use of F-18s, Navy fighter aircraft, MQ-9 drones, and Tomahawk cruise missiles in the strike against the Houthis.

Despite the leaked messages, Trump administration officials maintain that no classified information was disclosed during the conversation.

While Hegseth’s office declined to comment on the ongoing investigation, they emphasized the importance of adhering to operational security protocols.

It is common for government officials to use encrypted messaging platforms like Signal for communication, especially when access to secure facilities is limited.

The investigation into Hegseth’s actions underscores the significance of safeguarding classified information and adhering to proper communication protocols within the defense sector.