WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump responded to reports of a leaked group chat discussing US military plans. He denied any knowledge.
Presidential Response
Trump was questioned about the Atlantic’s editor-in-chief being added to a Signal chat discussing possible strikes. He dismissed the claims.
The journalist reportedly saw messages from accounts linked to top officials about military operations. Trump claimed he was uninformed.
The Atlantic’s report stated that classified details about Houthi strikes were shared in a private chat. Trump was unaware.
When asked, Trump replied, “I don’t know anything about it,” insisting it was the first time hearing the news.
Reporters pressed further, but Trump refused to elaborate on the group chat or the officials allegedly involved.
Signal Chat Details
The journalist claims he was added to a group chat discussing specific attack plans, including targets and weapons.
The chat reportedly included accounts labeled as high-ranking US security officials, adding credibility to the leak.
According to the report, the chat revealed real-time operational details before the actual strikes on the Houthis.
Messages allegedly included attack sequences, deployment times, and celebratory reactions post-strike from an account named “Michael Waltz.”
The White House has yet to confirm if those accounts truly belonged to US officials or if the chat was compromised.
White House Reaction
Officials have not provided further details but acknowledged awareness of the reported chat group incident.
Security experts say the alleged leak could raise concerns over encrypted communication use within government agencies.
Critics argue that if real, such an information breach could endanger military operations and national security.
The Atlantic’s editor claimed he was uncertain if the chat was legitimate or an elaborate attempt to mislead.
Some officials suggest that misinformation campaigns targeting journalists could be behind the leaked messages.
Political Repercussions
Opponents of the administration called for an investigation into potential security lapses related to the alleged leak.
Experts warn that such incidents, if verified, could have serious diplomatic and strategic consequences.
The Biden campaign criticized Trump’s handling of national security, calling for more transparency in military decision-making.
Supporters of Trump dismissed the report as exaggerated or an attempt to undermine his leadership ahead of elections.
The debate over encrypted communications and government security protocols has intensified in light of this controversy.