Pete Hegseth Addresses Yemen Strike Text Scandal: Denies Discussing War Plans

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that no sensitive war plans were discussed in a Signal chat group that included journalist Jeffrey Goldberg, who reported on a national security breach. Hegseth criticized Goldberg’s credibility and implications for National Security Adviser Mike Waltz’s job remain uncertain amid ongoing reviews.

In recent remarks, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized that sensitive war plans were not shared in a Signal chat group, which mistakenly included a journalist. Hegseth insisted, “Nobody was texting war plans and that’s all I have to say about that,” addressing concerns stemming from a report by The Atlantic regarding a significant breach of national security among Trump administration officials.

The article, penned by Jeffrey Goldberg, disclosed that he was inadvertently added to a Signal group chat featuring Hegseth, Vice President JD Vance, and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, where operational details regarding airstrikes against Houthi terrorists were discussed. This early communication occurred on March 11, days before the specific airstrikes were executed on March 15.

White House National Security Council spokesman Brian Hughes confirmed that the messages cited in Goldberg’s article appear “authentic” and noted that a review is now underway regarding the unintentional addition of an incorrect number to the chat.

In his comments, Hegseth criticized Goldberg, labeling him as a “deceitful and highly discredited… journalist” known for promoting hoaxes. He referenced several of Goldberg’s past reporting inaccuracies, such as allegations surrounding Trump’s campaign collusion with Russia and his controversial coverage of Trump’s comments about U.S. troops.

Goldberg reported that he was added to the Signal chain known as the “Houthi PC small group” shortly after connecting with Waltz. Consequences for Waltz are yet to be determined, with indications that he may risk losing his job due to the incident, which some officials deemed reckless given the nature of the discussions.

Addressing the situation, a senior Trump administration official stated it was irresponsible not to verify the chat participants, highlighting the necessity of cautious communication regarding national security matters. Trump has since reportedly contacted Waltz, following his earlier affirmation of unawareness regarding the article.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt reiterated President Trump’s confidence in his national security team, supporting Mike Waltz’s position amid the ongoing review. The White House did not immediately provide additional comments regarding this situation.

In summary, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth denied any discussion of sensitive war plans in a group chat mistakenly including journalist Jeffrey Goldberg. The unintended breach involved discussions on airstrikes in Yemen, raising concerns over national security protocol. Hegseth criticized Goldberg’s reputation as a journalist, while implications for National Security Adviser Mike Waltz are uncertain. The White House reaffirmed its confidence in the national security team as the review continues.

Original Source: nypost.com