“So, I hope the General will clarify, for he is the most trustworthy of the whole lot, so far...”
By his words he had demonstrated that he is not the most trustworthy, clearly. He was led astray by wild speculation, guesses, and, unsubstantiated claims. Then, he lacked the good judgment needed in something like this and went public with it.
You do realize the General had sources to back up his claims but due to possible military actions ongoing unbeknownst to him, he could not reveal much. Or maybe his whole presence and theory was meant to distract those that may have the plane.