Trump’s Decision Not to Dismiss National Security Advisor Following Yemen Leak

Following a leak of the U.S. attack plan by National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, President Trump was urged to fire him but chose to retain him to avoid political concessions. Despite Waltz’s public acknowledgment of the embarrassment and full responsibility for the leak, Trump downplayed the incident, framing it as a politicized attack.

After a significant leak of the U.S. attack plan on Houthi rebels in Yemen by National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, key White House officials suggested that President Donald Trump terminate Waltz’s position. Despite recognizing the embarrassment caused by this incident, Trump ultimately declined to dismiss the advisor, preferring not to grant the Democratic Party an easy victory, as reported by Politico.

Vice President JD Vance and Chief of Staff Susie Wiles were among those urging Trump to consider Waltz’s removal. Nevertheless, Trump expressed his support for Waltz, who joined Vance on a prominent visit to Greenland shortly thereafter. Vance emphasized that there would be no upheaval regarding Waltz’s status, asserting that the national security team remained firmly behind him.

Following the leak, Waltz took full accountability for the gaffe, acknowledging that his actions were “embarrassing.” He stated, “I take full responsibility. I built the group.” Trump’s stance remained dismissive, asserting that no sensitive information had been compromised and denouncing media speculation as a “witchhunt” against his National Security Advisor.

The leak was initially revealed by American magazine The Atlantic, which reported on the unintended inclusion of its editor-in-chief, Jeffrey Goldberg, in a private group discussing the operation. The leak disclosed critical details of the planned military assault on Yemen, including deliberations about timing and aircraft configurations involved in the first attack against the Houthis during Trump’s presidency.

In summary, President Trump opted not to fire National Security Advisor Mike Waltz following a serious leak concerning military operations in Yemen, primarily to avoid conceding to political pressure from Democrats. Despite the criticism and embarrassment resulting from the incident, Trump and his team maintained their support for Waltz in light of the situation.

Original Source: www.indiatoday.in