Hegseth Shared Classified Info via Signal, Probe Widens

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth used the encrypted app Signal for official Pentagon business far more extensively than previously known, reportedly discussing classified information and war plans in real time across at least a dozen chat groups. These groups included aides, family members, lawyers, and a journalist, and in one case, Hegseth directed aides via Signal to notify foreign governments about military operations. The use of Signal frequently bypassed Pentagon-secured communication systems and disrupted staff workflows, requiring aides to seek locations with sufficient phone service. The Pentagon Inspector General has expanded its investigation, now focusing on the exposure of classified information and war plans. Hegseth has denied knowingly sharing classified material, claiming only unclassified coordination occurred. The incident has renewed debate over government use of commercial encrypted apps and the adequacy of security oversight.