Melania Trump Reveals She Watched Military Raid Without Security Clearance

In her new memoir, former First Lady Melania Trump disclosed that she witnessed a classified military operation in 2019 despite not having the necessary security clearance. The raid targeted ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi in Syria.

Melania recounted that her husband, then-President Donald Trump, invited her to the White House Situation Room. “I was caught off guard when I received a call informing me that the president wanted to see me in the Oval Office,” she wrote. “I was directed to join him in the Situation Room— a first and unique experience for me.”

The Situation Room is a secure area where presidents and high-ranking officials monitor sensitive military operations. It is typically restricted to those with high-level security clearance. In her book, Melania shared, “‘Watch this incredible action at work,’ Donald whispered to me.” She added that she joined then-Vice President Mike Pence, Defense Secretary Mark Esper, and other senior leaders.

A notable aspect of the raid was the involvement of a military dog named Conan, who played a key role. Melania wrote, “Sadly, he sustained some injuries.” The Trumps later honored Conan at the White House. “After his recovery, we were honored to welcome him to the White House to present him with a medal for his exceptional courage,” she noted.

She also shared that she was inquisitive during the operation. “Curious about the specifics, I inquired about the number of troops involved, and the details were explained to me.” This revelation raises questions about protocol and ethics. Presidential historian Tim Naftali commented that while a president has the authority to share classified information with the First Lady, it is not a common practice.

Christopher Miller, who served as acting Defense Secretary under Trump, also referenced the incident in his own book, noting, “I wondered how it would play in the press if word got out that the First Lady had popped in to watch a major military operation,” according to The Independent.

Melania defended her presence, writing, “The mission to eliminate the leader of ISIS was a significant objective, and the successful completion of this operation would be a major accomplishment. This pivotal moment was one that Donald wanted to share with me.” The raid ended with al-Baghdadi’s death, after which Trump announced, “He died like a dog. He died like a coward.

The world is now a much safer place.” The Trump White House faced scrutiny over security clearances during his tenure, including reports that Trump had requested top-secret clearance for his son-in-law, Jared Kushner, despite intelligence concerns.

Melania’s memoir is being released as her husband prepares for another White House run. She also addresses the Capitol riot on January 6th, backing her husband’s claims about the 2020 election. She wrote, “Many Americans still have doubts about the election to this day. I am not the only person who questions the results,” according to The Daily Beast.