Gabbard Calls Signal Chat a ‘Mistake’ Amid National Security Controversy

US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard acknowledged on Wednesday that including a journalist in a Signal group chat discussing military operations was a mistake. The revelation has triggered intense scrutiny from lawmakers, with concerns over national security protocols and classified information leaks.

The chat, involving top Trump administration officials, included discussions on planned military strikes against Houthi rebels in Yemen. While Gabbard insisted the messages contained no classified information, Democratic lawmakers strongly disputed the claim, calling for an investigation and potential resignations.

The House Intelligence Committee hearing, originally scheduled to review U.S. national security threats, quickly shifted focus to the Signal leak. Lawmakers pressed Gabbard, CIA Director John Ratcliffe, and others on the security risks posed by high-level discussions on an encrypted messaging app.

Democratic leaders argued that the messages detailed weapons systems, strike sequences, and operational tactics, warranting serious consequences. Calls for Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s resignation intensified as questions over national security protocols dominated the hearing.

The White House and National Security Council have pledged to review the incident, but President Donald Trump dismissed concerns, calling it a “glitch.”

The controversy unfolds as the administration faces mounting pressure over global security threats, including tensions with China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea, as well as ongoing efforts to combat fentanyl trafficking and illegal immigration.

With lawmakers divided over the severity of the breach, the investigation into the Signal chat leak is expected to remain a hot-button issue in the coming weeks.