Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth strongly pushed back against renewed criticism over his reported use of the messaging app Signal for sensitive discussions, dismissing the allegations as politically motivated attacks. Speaking to reporters during the White House Easter Egg Roll, Hegseth denied claims that he shared intelligence related to U.S. military operations in Yemen in a second private chat. He emphasized that he remains fully aligned with President Donald Trump on defense policy and national security priorities.
Hegseth criticized the media for relying on anonymous sources, suggesting that recent reports were fueled by disgruntled former employees seeking to undermine him. Referencing coverage by The New York Times, he accused journalists of attempting to damage reputations through what he described as coordinated “hit pieces.” He insisted that such criticism would not distract him from his goal of restoring focus within the Pentagon on operational readiness and support for warfighters.
When asked whether he had recently spoken with the president, Hegseth confirmed that he had and stated that they are “on the same page,” adding that they would continue working together without interruption.
The White House also dismissed speculation that Trump might replace Hegseth. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt rejected an NPR report suggesting such a move, calling it inaccurate, while the administration’s rapid response team echoed that sentiment.
The controversy centers on reported Signal group chats involving senior officials discussing military strikes against Iran-backed Houthi forces in Yemen. One report alleged that Hegseth shared operational details in a chat that included family members. In a separate incident, The Atlantic editor-in-chief Jeffrey Goldberg was mistakenly added to a conversation and later published its contents.
Despite calls from Democrats for his resignation, Trump defended Hegseth, highlighting the success of the military operation and downplaying concerns.
