The Pentagon’s inspector general found Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth at fault for using the Signal messaging app to relay sensitive information regarding military operations against Yemen’s Houthi militants, potentially endangering U.S. personnel. Although the report concluded Hegseth did not improperly declassify material, lawmakers raised concerns that his communications violated Pentagon policy regarding secure information sharing. The investigation ignited political scrutiny, with critics claiming such actions would lead to termination for lower-ranking officials. Hegseth defended his use of the app, asserting that he shared only unclassified information, while the broader implications reflect ongoing debates about operational security and accountability within the military leadership amidst escalating conflicts in the region.