U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is facing intense scrutiny after reports emerged that he shared sensitive military operation details in a private group chat on the encrypted messaging app Signal. The leaked information included the planned timing for a targeted strike on a Houthi militant leader in Yemen.

According to The Atlantic, Hegseth sent messages about the planned strike two hours before the operation, raising concerns about security breaches at the highest levels of government. The Signal chat reportedly included National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, Vice President JD Vance, CIA Director John Ratcliffe, and Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard. However, the inclusion of journalist Jeffrey Goldberg, editor-in-chief of The Atlantic, has sparked controversy, as it may have inadvertently exposed military plans to unauthorized individuals.

The messages allegedly discussed specific details such as the target’s location, the type of weapons to be used, and the sequence of the attack.

Hegseth has denied any wrongdoing, stating that no classified information was shared. President Donald Trump has also defended him, making the same claim. However, critics argue that even timing and targeting details constitute highly sensitive information.

Democratic lawmakers are calling for an independent investigation, with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer urging the Justice Department to determine whether the leak violated the Espionage Act. Some House Democrats are also demanding the release of all related communications, including Signal chat records.

This incident has raised alarms about the use of commercial messaging apps by high-ranking officials to discuss national security matters. Critics warn that such practices could lead to unauthorized disclosures, jeopardizing U.S. military operations.

The White House has not commented on whether disciplinary action will be taken, but National Security Adviser Mike Waltz has acknowledged the controversy and announced an internal review. The Pentagon has yet to release a formal statement on the matter.