Washington: US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has reportedly ordered the installation of the Signal messaging app on a desktop in his Pentagon office, sparking concerns over the integration of the unclassified commercial app with secure military systems. According to the Washington Post, this move allows Hegseth to use Signal in a classified space where personal electronics are not permitted, enabling communication with external parties, including other government officials and his family.
According to Anadolu Agency, sources familiar with the matter revealed that Hegseth "cloned" the Signal app from his mobile device to the Pentagon computer, a workaround that raises questions about compliance with US laws requiring the preservation of app messages. Despite claims from Hegseth's spokesman, Sean Parnell, denying the use of Signal on a government computer, two sources confirmed its installation on a second office computer, alongside interest in a program for conventional text messaging.
The controversy, dubbed "Signalgate," intensified after revelations of Hegseth sharing sensitive military operation details in Yemen through a group chat app led by White House National Security Adviser Michael Waltz. The Biden administration's limited approval of Signal's use in 2023 does not extend to sharing classified material, which is strictly prohibited.
In response to the situation, senators Roger Wicker and Jack Reed have called for a review by the Pentagon's inspector general, who has agreed to investigate Hegseth's use of the app. Further reports suggest Hegseth shared operation details within a separate Signal group involving family members and his lawyer, raising additional security concerns.
The fallout has led to the dismissal of three senior aides accused by Hegseth of leaking sensitive information, a claim they refute as slanderous. Adm. William McRaven has advised Hegseth to assume responsibility and rely on experienced military officials, underscoring the need for humility in such a critical role. Meanwhile, the Pentagon has yet to appoint a new chief of staff following Joe Kasper's departure.