John Jones, an American reporter with no prior journalism experience, is sent to Europe by his newspaper editor to cover the rapidly increasing tensions and potential for conflict. Jones adopts the pseudonym 'Huntley Haverstock' and soon finds himself embroiled in a web of espionage and political intrigue. His initial assignment is to attend a press conference by a peace advocate named Van Meer, but events take a dark turn when Van Meer is kidnapped in Amsterdam. Determined to uncover the truth, Jones teams up with Carol Fisher, the daughter of a prominent peace organization leader. Together, they unravel a conspiracy involving secret diplomatic maneuvers that aim to instigate war.

Jones' journey to uncover the masterminds behind the plot sends him across various European locales filled with danger and deception. Along the way, he faces numerous challenges, including evading assassination attempts, piecing together clandestine clues, and navigating murky alliances. The tension mounts as Jones delves deeper into the conspiracy, discovering that trusted allies may not be as they seem. With limited time and resources, he must rely on his cunning and resolve to expose the truth and thwart a looming international disaster. The film deftly intertwines moments of high stakes with glimpses of human vulnerability, painting a compelling picture of wartime journalism fraught with peril and moral complexity.