Trump Camp in Crisis as Defense Adviser Pete Hegseth Implicated in Sensitive Intel Leak

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faces mounting scrutiny after allegedly sharing classified military plans about Houthi rebel airstrikes in Yemen via encrypted Signal chats—including with his wife, brother, and personal lawyer.

Critics argue the leaks highlight reckless security practices at the Pentagon, with former officials demanding accountability.

How Defense Secretary Shared Houthi Airstrike Plans via Signal

Hegseth reportedly created a Signal group titled “Defense | Team Huddle” in January 2025, adding his wife Jennifer, brother Phil, and attorney Tim Parlatore. While the app is end-to-end encrypted, the NSA warned earlier this year that such platforms pose security risks. Details shared included strike timings, targets, and weaponry—information later leaked to The Atlantic editor Jeffrey Goldberg. Hegseth denies sharing classified intel, claiming, “Nobody was texting war plans.”

Pentagon in Disarray: Calls for Hegseth’s Resignation Over Security Breach

Former Pentagon spokesperson John Ullyot, who resigned last week, blasted Hegseth’s leadership in a Politico op-ed, calling the department “a month of total chaos.” He cited mass firings, operational leaks, and “dysfunction” distracting from national priorities. Ullyot urged President Trump to replace Hegseth, stating, “The president deserves better from his senior leadership.”

NSA Warns Against Signal: Encryption Risks and Military Protocol Lapses

Despite Signal’s encryption, the NSA cautioned in February 2025 that its use by officials could bypass secure government channels. Hegseth’s reliance on a private phone for sensitive communications—including discussions with Trump’s security team—has raised alarms. A Pentagon spokesperson insisted “no classified information” was shared, but experts argue even unclassified operational details can compromise missions.

Jennifer Hegseth’s Role: Unofficial Presence in Sensitive Defense Meetings

Jennifer Hegseth, a former Fox News producer with no formal security clearance, has attended high-stakes meetings alongside her husband, including talks with UK Defense Secretary John Healey and NATO ministers about Ukraine aid. Her presence at discussions involving military intelligence has fueled concerns about insider access and protocol breaches.

What’s Next for the Pentagon? Investigations and Leadership Under Scrutiny

Congressional committees are expected to probe the Signal leaks, focusing on Hegseth’s compliance with security protocols. Meanwhile, the Pentagon faces pressure to tighten communication policies and address leadership “chaos.” With Hegseth’s brother and lawyer both employed at the department—albeit in unrelated roles—critics question whether familial ties influenced lax oversight.