The Atlantic magazine has published the full exchange of leaked Signal messages detailing the US military’s attack plans on Yemen. The leak, which has sparked outrage in Washington, originated from a messaging group involving top officials from former President Donald Trump’s administration.
The controversy began when an Atlantic journalist was mistakenly added to the private chat, exposing sensitive details about the March 15 strikes against Yemen’s Huthi rebels. Screenshots of the conversation revealed precise attack timings, the types of aircraft used, and real-time intelligence updates during the operation. Initially, the magazine withheld certain specifics for security reasons, but after repeated denials from Trump’s team that any classified details were involved, it opted to release the full exchange with the exception of one CIA operative’s name, which the agency requested remain undisclosed.
The messages disclosed a meticulously coordinated assault, with former Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth writing: “1215et: F-18s LAUNCH (1st strike package)… Target Terrorist is @ his Known Location so SHOULD BE ON TIME.” Two hours later, drones were expected to strike, with Hegseth noting: “1415: Strike Drones on Target (THIS IS WHEN THE FIRST BOMBS WILL DEFINITELY DROP).” The conversation also referenced the use of Tomahawk cruise missiles.
Despite the gravity of the leak, Trump and his allies have downplayed its significance. The former president dismissed the story as a “hoax,” while Vice President JD Vance accused The Atlantic of exaggeration. National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, who inadvertently added the journalist to the chat, insisted that “no war plans” or locations were disclosed.
The exposé has fueled sharp criticism from Democratic lawmakers, who argue that the Trump officials’ carelessness has jeopardized national security. The leak is also straining diplomatic relations, particularly after disparaging remarks about European allies surfaced in the chat.
As the US continues its campaign against the Iran-backed Huthi rebels, this scandal raises serious concerns about operational security and the handling of sensitive military intelligence at the highest levels of government.
