The Atlantic published a leaked Signal chat revealing US military plans for an attack on Yemen, following the accidental inclusion of a reporter. The White House has vehemently defended itself, denying classified material was involved, while prominent officials criticized the leak. The situation has sparked outrage among Congress and may strain US relations with allies, amidst ongoing military actions against the Houthi rebels.

On Wednesday, the reputable publication The Atlantic disseminated the disclosed messages exchanged among senior officials regarding plans for a military operation in Yemen. The publication emerged following an incident where an Atlantic journalist was inadvertently included in a confidential Signal chat, leading to the revelation of essential details, including strike times and the types of aircraft to be deployed in the operation.

The coverage arose amidst pressure on the White House to address the implications of the leak, as officials vehemently defended their position, labeling the report as a fabrication and criticizing The Atlantic’s journalists. During a podcast discussion, President Trump noted that the information disclosed was inconsequential and affirmed the success of the operation despite the leak.

Vice President J.D. Vance, part of the Signal exchange, asserted that The Atlantic had exaggerated the significance of the leaked information. National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, who mistakenly added journalist Jeffrey Goldberg to the chat, clarified that the content disclosed did not include any strategic plans or locations vital to national security.

The investigation into the Signal exchange revealed specific plans, including impending strikes against the Houthi rebels. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth communicated time-sensitive information shortly before US warplanes commenced their attacks. Hegseth detailed operations involving F-18 jets and drones, providing real-time updates about the mission’s status as military units executed their objectives.

Moreover, the leaked chat provided a glimpse into the informal interactions among the officials, including moments of levity amidst the high-stress environment. The Atlantic did omit one CIA individual at the request of the agency while asserting they had received confirmation from the government regarding the non-classified nature of the exhibited material.

The details of the leak have prompted strong criticism from Democratic members of Congress, who have condemned the Trump administration for fostering incompetence that could jeopardize military operations. The controversy has also exacerbated tensions between the US and its international partners, particularly following derogatory comments made about European nations in the leaked discussions. The Trump administration’s aggressive tactics against the Houthis correlate with the ongoing conflicts impacting shipping routes in the Red Sea, as the Houthi rebels, having controlled significant parts of Yemen for over a decade, continue to align with pro-Iran factions opposed to Western interests.

The publication of the leaked Signal chat by The Atlantic has initiated a fierce defense from the White House and prompted widespread criticism from members of Congress. The situation highlights concerns regarding security and diplomatic relations amid military operations against the Houthi rebels in Yemen. The repercussions of this leak may lead to significant consequences for Trump administration officials and the United States’ international standing.

Original Source: www.newarab.com

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