A leak of U.S. airstrike plans against Houthi targets in Yemen was revealed by The Atlantic, detailing communication among Trump administration officials. The editor, Jeffrey Goldberg, was inadvertently included in a Signal chat where operational details were discussed, raising national security concerns and leading to calls for investigations into a potential breach of the Espionage Act.

The Atlantic magazine published an article revealing significant military details regarding a U.S. attack on Yemen’s Houthi rebels, disclosed by Trump administration officials just hours before the operation. Editor-in-chief Jeffrey Goldberg reported that he was inadvertently added to a Signal chat where these operational plans were discussed. This breach has raised serious security concerns, prompting criticism of the Trump administration for a lack of proper oversight.

Goldberg detailed the events leading up to the leak, noting that on March 11, he received a connection request from Michael Waltz, the U.S. national security adviser. Initially skeptical about the identity of the individual, he accepted the request based on their past acquaintance but remained cautious due to the administration’s contentious relationship with journalists. On March 13, he found himself included in a group labeled “Houthi PC small group,” which he interpreted as a discussion forum for major security decisions.

The group comprised 18 members, including other notable figures from the Trump administration such as Secretary of State Marco Rubio and CIA Director John Ratcliffe. Initial messages discussed coordination regarding the Houthis and operational plans, with Waltz emphasizing the need for effective communication among members. Tensions surfaced as some members, notably Vance, expressed concerns regarding the timing of the military action.

Critical discussions ensued where Hegseth acknowledged the potential risks of delaying the operation. He argued that taking decisive action was crucial to maintain U.S. credibility and prevent adverse reactions from allies. On March 15, Hegseth presented an update containing sensitive operational details concerning the planned strikes.

Upon confirming the attack occurred as scheduled, Goldberg reached out to U.S. officials for clarification regarding his unexpected inclusion in the chat. In response, the National Security Council confirmed the authenticity of the message thread and acknowledged an inadvertent addition. Hegseth and others downplayed the situation, stating that it was a coordinated policy discussion rather than texted war plans.

Legal experts suggest that this incident may warrant an investigation under the Espionage Act, raising the possibility of serious consequences for those involved. Democrats in Congress have called for a thorough investigation into this national security breach, emphasizing the need for accountability and proper oversight of communications involving military operations.

The unauthorized disclosure of military operations relating to Yemen by Trump administration officials poses significant national security concerns. The incident highlights deficiencies in communication protocols within the government and raises the question of potential legal ramifications under the Espionage Act. Calls for investigations indicate the critical need for accountability in safeguarding sensitive information to protect U.S. interests abroad.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com

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