The Atlantic revealed a full transcript of a Signal chat on military operations in Yemen, prompting U.S. officials to deny any breach of classified information. Key figures in the chat discussed the implications of a potential attack on Houthi militants. The leak raises questions about national security and media ethics amid a turbulent political landscape.
The Atlantic has published a full transcript of a private chat from a Signal messaging group related to a military operation in Yemen. In response, top U.S. officials, including Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, have denied the allegations that classified plans were circulated. They have also criticized The Atlantic’s editor-in-chief, Jeffrey Goldberg, labeling him as “anti-Trump” and “sensationalist,” while asserting that the content was a significant security breach.
The Signal chat, named “Houthi PC Small Group,” was initiated by National Security Adviser Michael Waltz and included senior officials such as Vice President JD Vance and CIA Director John Ratcliffe. The conversations reveal preparations for military coordination, indicating a potential strike against Houthi militants and discussing the implications that such actions would have on international perceptions and oil prices.
During the chat, Vice President JD Vance raised concerns about executing the strike, stating it might create tensions in Europe and influence oil prices negatively. He proposed delaying the operation for a month but ultimately accepted the team’s majority decision. CIA Director John Ratcliffe supported this delay to gather more intelligence, while Hegseth insisted on immediate action to safeguard national interests, arguing that the strike was necessary to preserve freedom of navigation.
Hegseth laid out a timeline for the operation’s phases, detailing the scheduled strikes and objectives. The first target, identified as a senior Houthi commander, was successfully eliminated, prompting positive affirmations from other officials in the chat. After validating the authenticity of the messages, Goldberg departed from the group, noting that no significant information had been redacted.
In light of the publication, Hegseth contended on social media that the disclosed “war plans” lacked critical information, emphasizing that they contained no classified details or specific operational directives. The White House has remained silent on the matter, but the leak has sparked discussions regarding media ethics, transparency, and national security in a politically charged climate.
The publication of the Signal chat by The Atlantic has unveiled internal discussions among U.S. officials regarding military operations in Yemen. While officials deny allegations of leaking classified information, the incident has raised serious concerns about national security and transparency. The differing viewpoints on proceeding with military action have led to much debate within the government, showcasing the challenges that arise in balancing operational security with public accountability.
Original Source: www.business-standard.com
