The inclusion of journalist Jeffrey Goldberg in a secret Signal chat group, which included Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and National Security Adviser Michael Waltz, has sparked concerns about the potential for leaks and compromised national security. The incident has been dubbed "Signalgate" by some lawmakers, who are calling for greater accountability within the administration.
Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard and CIA Director John Ratcliffe testified before the Senate Intelligence Committee that no classified material was shared with Goldberg, but Democrats have questioned their explanation. The US military's planned strike on Houthi targets was leaked to Goldberg after he was added to the Signal group chat by Waltz.
This has raised questions about the judgment of top officials, including Hegseth, who posted operational details about the pending strikes in the chat. The incident highlights the delicate balance between maintaining secrecy and transparency in international relations, particularly when it comes to sensitive military operations.