In a startling revelation, a leaked group chat has exposed the Trump administration’s inadvertent disclosure of secret military strike plans. The incident unfolded when Jeffrey Goldberg, editor-in-chief of The Atlantic, was mistakenly added to a Signal group chat by National Security Advisor Michael Waltz. This encrypted conversation included high-ranking officials such as Vice President JD Vance, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Inside the Leaked Conversations
The group chat, titled “Houthi PC small group,” served as a platform for discussing imminent military operations against Houthi forces in Yemen. Deliberations covered detailed aspects of the planned strikes, including target selection, weaponry, and sequencing. Vice President Vance expressed reservations about the timing, citing potential economic repercussions and misalignment with the administration’s European policies. Despite these concerns, Defense Secretary Hegseth advocated proceeding promptly to restore freedom of navigation and reestablish deterrence.
On March 15, 2025, at approximately 11:44 a.m. Eastern Time, Hegseth shared specific operational details, indicating that strikes would commence around 1:45 p.m. By 1:55 p.m., reports confirmed explosions in Sanaa, Yemen’s capital. Following the operation, officials exchanged congratulatory messages within the chat.
The accidental inclusion of a journalist in high-level military discussions has ignited bipartisan concern. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has called for a comprehensive investigation into the breach, emphasizing the potential risks to operational security and American lives. Similarly, Senate Armed Services Committee Chair Roger Wicker expressed alarm over the mishandling of classified information.
Defense Secretary Hegseth has downplayed the incident, asserting, “Nobody was texting war plans.” Nonetheless, the National Security Council has initiated an inquiry to determine how Goldberg was added to the group chat and to assess the implications of the leak.
A Pattern of Security Lapses
This episode adds to a series of controversies surrounding the Trump administration’s handling of sensitive information. Critics argue that using unsecured communication channels for classified discussions reflects a broader disregard for established security protocols. The incident has also exposed internal divisions within the administration, with Vice President Vance’s opposition to the strikes highlighting differing perspectives on foreign policy priorities.
As the administration faces mounting scrutiny, the effectiveness of its internal communication practices and commitment to safeguarding national security information remain under question. The outcome of the ongoing investigations will likely have significant implications for the administration’s credibility and operational procedures moving forward.