A significant security breach has surfaced after US National Security Advisor Mike Waltz admitted to accidentally adding a journalist to a private Signal chat group where high-ranking officials discussed classified military operations.
Waltz took full responsibility for the mistake, stating, “I take full responsibility. I created the group.” He explained that he had likely saved the journalist’s number by mistake, confusing it with someone else’s. The group included key figures such as Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Vice President JD Vance, and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. They were discussing upcoming military strikes on Yemen’s Houthi rebels.
The unintended recipient of this sensitive information was Jeffrey Goldberg, editor-in-chief of The Atlantic. Goldberg later published details from the chat, revealing classified discussions. Waltz admitted he was unfamiliar with Goldberg personally, which contributed to the confusion.
Washington Reacts to the Security Breach
The leak has sparked widespread concern in Washington, with officials alarmed over the lapse in internal security. The US National Security Council (NSC) confirmed the chat’s authenticity and has launched an internal investigation into how the journalist was mistakenly added.
Among the exposed information were military target locations and attack sequencing details, which could compromise national security. Experts warn that even encrypted messaging apps like Signal are not suitable for handling classified data, and this incident underscores the need for more secure communication methods.
President Donald Trump played down the situation, telling NBC, “A staffer added the journalist, not Waltz. It was a minor slip-up, not a serious breach.” However, security officials and lawmakers remain unconvinced, calling for immediate reforms to prevent similar errors in the future.
Push for Stronger Security Measures
The controversy has reignited debates about secure communication practices among top US officials. Signal, despite its encryption, is not an approved platform for classified discussions. The breach highlights concerns over casual digital communication at the highest levels of government.
Just weeks before the incident, Waltz’s team had announced measures to combat leaks, including potential polygraph testing for defense personnel. Now, critics argue this incident undermines those efforts. Security analysts stress the need for clearer internal policies and stricter consequences for mishandling sensitive information.
Pressure is mounting on the administration to enhance digital discipline and establish tighter controls over confidential military discussions. As investigations continue, Washington faces growing scrutiny over its approach to safeguarding national security information.