In a startling security lapse, Jeffrey Goldberg, editor-in-chief of The Atlantic, was mistakenly added to a confidential Signal group chat discussing U.S. military operations against Houthi targets in Yemen. The incident exposed sensitive details about the planned strikes, including weapon specifications, target locations, and timing.
The group chat, named "Houthi PC small group," comprised high-ranking officials such as Vice President J.D. Vance and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. Goldberg received a message on March 11 from an individual identified as National Security Adviser Michael Waltz, inviting him to join the chat. Initially skeptical about the authenticity, Goldberg realized the gravity of the situation when the discussed military actions unfolded precisely as detailed in the messages.
This breach highlights significant concerns regarding the administration's communication protocols, particularly the use of non-secure platforms like Signal for transmitting classified information. The National Security Council has initiated an investigation into the matter, while President Trump has downplayed the incident, asserting that no national security threats emerged from the mishap.