Pentagon chief faces expanded probe over Signal leaks – WSJ

Acting Pentagon Inspector General Stephen Stebbins has expanded the investigation into U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth over alleged leaks of sensitive information via the Signal messaging app, The Wall Street Journal reported, citing a congressional aide and another source familiar with the case.

The investigation now includes a separate group chat revealed by The New York Times, in which Hegseth reportedly shared military plans for an attack on Yemen with participants including his wife and brother. Hegseth has denied leaking classified data, claiming he only shared general updates. However, chat logs reportedly show discussions of strike timing and targets.

The WSJ noted that the expanded probe increases political and legal risks for Hegseth, who has accused opponents of using leaks to damage him.

In March, The Atlantic editor-in-chief Jeffrey Goldberg revealed that presidential adviser Mike Waltz had accidentally added him to a classified Signal group chat where military operations against Yemen’s Houthis were being discussed. The group included Hegseth, Vice President J.D. Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and other National Security Council members.

Despite the controversy, Vice President Vance told Fox News that President Donald Trump had no plans to dismiss Hegseth. “Pete Hegseth is safe,” Vance said. “I believe the cabinet is doing an excellent job — especially Pete.”

N.Tebrizli