Pentagon Watchdog Finds Pete Hegseth’s Signal Chat Put US Troops at Risk

A Pentagon watchdog has concluded that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth endangered U.S. personnel. This finding relates to his use of a private messaging app during military strikes. The events occurred earlier this year against Houthi rebels in Yemen.

According to a CNN report, the Inspector General’s review was delivered to lawmakers. The probe examined Hegseth’s decision to use the encrypted Signal app. Officials say he shared sensitive operational details about the mission there.

Report Details Security Risks and Declassification Authority

The investigation found that sharing information on Signal created significant risk. It potentially compromised the safety of U.S. service members. The mission’s security was also put in jeopardy.

However, the report noted Hegseth did not break classification rules. As Defense Secretary, he holds the authority to declassify information. The review did not determine he acted improperly in that specific regard.

A redacted version of the report is expected for public release soon. Lawmakers reviewed the full document in a secure Capitol facility. This comes after months of scrutiny over the secretary’s actions.

Broader Impact on Operational Security and Response

The incident raises serious questions about modern communication protocols. Using unofficial apps for sensitive discussions bypasses secure government systems. This practice can create vulnerabilities, experts warn.

Hegseth responded forcefully on social media platform X. He called the report a “total exoneration” for him. He asserted that no classified information was improperly shared in the chat.

The controversy began after The Atlantic magazine revealed an editorial error. Editor-in-Chief Jeffrey Goldberg was accidentally added to the Signal chat. Participants discussed real-time strike details, including timing and equipment.

The Pentagon watchdog’s findings highlight a critical tension between modern communication and traditional operational security. The Pete Hegseth Signal chat incident serves as a stark reminder of the persistent risks in the digital age.

Thought you’d like to know

What prompted the investigation into Pete Hegseth?

The probe started after The Atlantic revealed its editor was mistakenly in a Signal chat. Officials, including Hegseth, discussed upcoming strikes on Yemen in that chat. This accidental inclusion sparked the Inspector General’s review.

What information was shared in the Signal chat?

Messages included the precise timing of military strikes hours in advance. Officials also shared details on the specific aircraft and missiles being used. Real-time intelligence on strike aftermath was reportedly sent as well.

Did the report find any rules were broken?

The report found Hegseth’s actions created security risks for troops. However, it did not conclude he violated classification rules. This is due to his inherent authority to declassify information as Defense Secretary.

When will the full report be made public?

A version with some redactions is expected to be released this week. The complete report remains classified. Lawmakers have already reviewed the full findings in a secure setting.

How did Secretary Hegseth respond to the findings?

Hegseth claimed “total exoneration” in a post on social media. He stated the report showed “no classified information” was improperly handled. He also defended the military action against the Houthis.