Pentagon Watchdog Reports Hegseth's Signal Use Risked Troop Safety

A classified Inspector General report has found that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's use of the Signal messaging app in March to share sensitive military plans targeting Houthi rebels in Yemen may have compromised U.S. troops and mission objectives. The report, sent to Congress on Tuesday night, indicates that Hegseth shared real-time updates about planned military strikes, including specific details such as "This is when the first bombs will drop."

The Inspector General's findings suggest that Hegseth's actions could have jeopardized operational security. While the Defense Secretary has the authority to declassify information, the report notes there is no documentation of such a decision in this case. Hegseth declined an interview with the Inspector General, opting instead to submit his account in writing.

An unclassified version of the report is scheduled for public release on Thursday. The Pentagon has not responded to requests for comment. This development may intensify bipartisan concerns regarding Hegseth's judgment and could renew discussions about his position within the administration.