URGENT UPDATE: Democratic veterans in Congress are raising alarms over Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth following a troubling Pentagon report that reveals he jeopardized U.S. troops by sharing sensitive military plans on an unsecured messaging app. This revelation comes amidst allegations of unlawful military strikes in the Caribbean, intensifying concerns about the safety of American service members.
The report, released by the Pentagon inspector general, indicates that Hegseth disclosed Yemen war strategies via the commercial app Signal, prompting fierce backlash from lawmakers. “He shared information he shouldn’t have in a way that he shouldn’t have,” stated Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA), an Air Force veteran. “The safety of our men and women in uniform could be compromised.”
This alarming situation escalates with accusations that Hegseth approved controversial military actions in the Caribbean, leaving many in Congress outraged. “It is incredibly offensive,” said Sen. Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), who lost her legs in Iraq. “This President, this SecDef, is willing to throw you under the bus.” Duckworth emphasized that Hegseth is shirking responsibility, stating, “You never delegate responsibility. The responsibility rests with him.”
On social media, Hegseth attempted to deflect blame, voicing support for Admiral Mitch Bradley, who oversaw a military operation that reportedly involved a second strike on a boat in the Caribbean. Critics argue this action could constitute a war crime. Hegseth vehemently denies any wrongdoing.
Democratic leaders, including Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA), are condemning Hegseth’s behavior, stating, “No leader worth their salt pushes responsibility off on a subordinate.” Kaine warned that if Hegseth issued a “kill everybody” order, it would signify a blatant violation of international law. He reiterated the importance of accountability, stating, “The opening salvo of ‘It’s all a lie’… to now, ‘Well, it was Adm. Bradley’s call, not mine’— no.”
The urgency of this situation cannot be overstated. Rep. Adam Schiff (D-CA) echoed concerns that unauthorized military actions could have severe backlash, both legally and physically, for service members. “We risk putting service members in physical danger, but we also risk putting them at legal risk and that’s exactly what’s happened,” Schiff cautioned.
As tensions rise, Democratic veterans are calling for immediate congressional action to pass an Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF) before further military operations are conducted. “We’re seeing realized fears that this unauthorized campaign would result in blowback to the country, to our troops,” Schiff warned.
Critics of Hegseth are demanding accountability and questioning how long President Donald Trump will allow this behavior to continue. “At what point does the President recognize that and ask for his resignation?” Houlahan asked, underscoring the deteriorating trust in Hegseth’s leadership.
This developing story raises critical questions about military ethics and the safety of U.S. troops. As Congress deliberates, all eyes remain on Hegseth and the implications of his actions. Stay tuned for updates as this situation unfolds.
