Source: BBC
Senators Roger Wicker (R) and Jack Reed (D), leaders of the Senate Armed Services Committee, have formally requested an expedited Inspector General investigation into the unauthorized disclosure of sensitive military information regarding planned strikes against Yemen's Houthi militants. The leak occurred through a Signal group chat involving top national security officials.
The controversy began when Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth shared detailed operational plans, including precise timings of airstrikes, in a Signal group chat. This group inadvertently included Jeffrey Goldberg, Editor-in-Chief of The Atlantic, who subsequently published the exchanges, revealing the security breach.
The White House has asserted that no classified information was shared. However, the specificity of the details disclosed has led to bipartisan concern over potential operational security compromises and the appropriateness of using commercial messaging apps like Signal for sensitive communications. Senator Wicker emphasized the need for accountability, stating, "Let's see."
This incident has sparked widespread scrutiny, with calls for resignations and legal actions. Democrats have demanded Defense Secretary Hegseth's resignation, citing the exposure of sensitive information. Additionally, watchdog group American Oversight has filed a lawsuit alleging violations of the Federal Records Act due to the use of Signal for official communications.
The Inspector General's investigation aims to assess the extent of the breach, evaluate the use of unapproved communication platforms for sensitive information, and recommend measures to prevent future incidents. This probe underscores the critical importance of maintaining stringent operational security protocols within the highest levels of government.
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