The White House has issued a forceful denial of reports that it is considering replacing Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, following bombshell allegations that he shared sensitive military information via an encrypted messaging app. The administration has dismissed the claims as part of a politically motivated media smear campaign, even as critics raise concerns about national security and calls for an official investigation grow louder.

The controversy began on April 20, when The New York Times published an article alleging that Hegseth used the encrypted messaging platform Signal to share key operational details regarding an impending US bombing campaign in Yemen. According to the Times, the information was sent to several close associates, including his wife, Jennifer, his brother, Phil, and his personal attorney, Tim Parlatore. The leak reportedly took place on March 15.

While the details shared in the message were reportedly not technically classified, they included precise timing and logistical elements of the military operation-information typically restricted to top-level military and intelligence officials. The report, citing an anonymous source briefed on the matter, immediately triggered alarm among analysts and members of Congress, who questioned whether the act constituted a breach of military protocol or even a violation of federal law.

In the wake of the Times article, National Public Radio (NPR) followed up with its own report on April 21, claiming that the White House was discreetly vetting possible replacements for Hegseth. The report cited an unnamed official who said internal discussions had begun in anticipation of Hegseth’s potential resignation or removal due to the controversy.........

© Blitz