US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth shared sensitive military information regarding a March attack on Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi rebels in a private Signal messaging group that included his wife, brother, and personal lawyer, according to sources familiar with the matter.
This marks the second known Signal chat involving Hegseth, raising fresh concerns about the use of unclassified communication channels for national security matters.
The chat, accessed through Hegseth’s personal phone, reportedly included over a dozen people and originated during his confirmation process to coordinate with allies.
CNN reported that Hegseth continued using the group well after his confirmation to relay operational military plans, including details of US airstrikes and scheduling.
Participants in the chat included Hegseth’s wife Jennifer Rauchet, a former Fox News producer; his brother Phil, a Homeland Security liaison; and lawyer Tim Parlatore, who holds a Pentagon role. It remains unclear whether all members had appropriate security clearances.
The revelations come amid a broader internal investigation into leaks at the Pentagon.
Last week, three senior officials were dismissed, including top adviser Dan Caldwell and deputy chief of staff Darin Selnick. Hegseth’s chief of staff also resigned amid growing internal tensions.
Criticism has intensified, with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer calling for Hegseth’s dismissal. Senator Tammy Duckworth echoed the demand, saying he should “resign in disgrace.”
While the Defense Department has not officially commented, former press secretary John Ullyot denied the firings were tied to the leaks.
Hegseth had reportedly pushed for an FBI probe, which aides discouraged due to an ongoing inspector general investigation.
The incident adds to the growing controversy surrounding the Pentagon’s internal communication and leadership under Hegseth.
