Trump Fires NSA Mike Waltz Following “Signalgate” and Policy Clashes

National Security Adviser Mike Waltz is out, reassigned as the next UN ambassador nominee after a series of embarrassing missteps. Waltz’s accidental inclusion of a journalist in a classified Signal group chat—leading to “Signalgate”—strained the administration’s confidence, while his push for hardline actions against Iranian proxies clashed with Trump’s preference for flexible maneuvers. Despite a brief attempt by the White House to defend him, Waltz’s forced departure reflects the second-term administration’s low tolerance for major leaks or policy discord. The shift also highlights the revolving-door nature of Trump’s national security team, now seeking its fourth NSA since 2017. Waltz must secure Senate confirmation for the UN role, which is uncertain given bipartisan frustrations. Meanwhile, an interim NSA steps in, but speculation swirls over who might fill the role permanently—candidates range from retired generals to loyal State Department hawks.