Investigation into Mike Waltz’s Signal Chat Groups Following Yemen Leak

Recent reports indicate that Mike Waltz, the U.S. national security advisor, may have created at least 20 additional secret chat groups on Signal for discussing national security matters. This follows a leak related to a Yemen attack that raised significant concerns over the sharing of sensitive information within these channels. The Trump administration faces pressure for accountability as questions about the classified nature of discussions arise.

The U.S. national security sphere is facing scrutiny following reports that Mike Waltz, the national security advisor, had established at least 20 additional Signal chat groups besides one that leaked details about a Yemen military operation. These chat groups reportedly addressed significant national security topics and could involve sharing sensitive information. This situation arises after a leak related to a March 15 Yemen attack, which was inadvertently exposed by a journalist added to the chat, thus triggering a security dilemma known as ‘Signalgate.’

According to Politico’s report published on April 3, these Signal groups were commonly utilized for discussing high-stakes issues such as the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the Israel-Hamas war, threats from China, and U.S. policies in the Middle East, along with security matters concerning Africa and Europe. The report suggests that these communication practices are prevalent within the National Security Council.

Insiders mentioned that sensitive information was frequently exchanged within these chats, although it remains unclear whether classified data was specifically shared. Experts noted that operational details regarding the Yemen strike, such as the planning, munitions, and strategic execution, may indeed be classified.

Sources indicated that the establishment of chats on varied national security topics was a regular occurrence. Reports also suggest that the communications on Signal became integral to the NSC’s operational procedures, possibly starting during the Trump administration’s transition phase.

In the aftermath of the leak, the Trump administration initially downplayed the incident, which has led to calls from politicians across the spectrum for an investigation into possible security breaches. The identities of the individuals included in other chat groups remain speculative, but they might overlap with those involved in the Yemen operation discussions, including notable figures such as Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.

Waltz acknowledged the missteps connected to the leak, asserting that he bears “full responsibility” for the embarrassing oversight, echoing the sentiment of maintaining that no classified information was disseminated, similar to the official stance taken following the incident.

The emergence of multiple Signal chat groups used by Mike Waltz highlights significant security concerns within U.S. national security communications. The leak of sensitive information related to a Yemen attack has generated calls for investigation, as the implications of unauthorized disclosures could undermine national security. As scrutiny intensifies, understanding the dynamics of these chat groups and the information shared within them remains crucial.

Original Source: www.wionews.com