The Pentagon has initiated an investigation into Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's use of the messaging app Signal to discuss military strategies concerning air strikes against Houthi rebels in Yemen. The action, announced by Steven Stebbins, the acting inspector general of the Department of Defense, follows revelations that a journalist was accidentally included in a group chat involving top national security officials, prompting widespread scrutiny over information sharing protocols.

The investigation seeks to assess whether Hegseth and other Department of Defense (DoD) personnel adhered to established policies governing the use of non-secure communication platforms for official discussions. The joint request from the Republican chairman and the Democratic ranking member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, BBC reported, emphasized the necessity of understanding the implications of using unclassified platforms for potentially sensitive military operations.

Details surrounding the incident emerged when Jeffrey Goldberg, editor-in-chief of The Atlantic, was inadvertently added to the Signal group. Discussions in the chat reportedly included specifics about operational plans, including timelines and weapon systems intended for use during the air strikes. Hegseth has consistently denied that any classified information was disclosed during these conversations.

Senators Roger Wicker and Jack Reed expressed serious concern about the implications of such discussions taking place on an unsecured messaging app. In a letter to Stebbins, they wrote, "the situation raises critical questions about treating sensitive and classified information in an unclassified context." The White House initially asserted that no classified materials were involved, although calls for Hegseth's resignation have emerged from various lawmakers.

The inspector general's memorandum requested Hegseth name two contacts involved in the incident within five days, ensuring that an adequate review can proceed to clarify compliance with DoD policies on classification and records retention.

Stebbins noted, "The objective of this evaluation is to ensure accountability within the Department of Defense regarding communication protocols," as the investigation unfolds in both Washington and at U.S. Central Command headquarters in Tampa, Florida. The case has reignited discussions regarding the security of military communications under the Trump administration and the proper handling of sensitive information.

This ongoing investigation and the surrounding controversies highlight pressing questions about the balance between operational secrecy and transparent governance, especially within the rapidly evolving landscape of modern military engagements.

For further details, refer to CBS News and ABC News.