Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth Criticized for Bellicose Rhetoric on Iran War

Critics warn Hegseth's Christian nationalism and glorification of violence make him unfit to lead the Pentagon during a crisis

Mar. 13, 2026 at 12:22am

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Pete Hegseth, the former Fox News host who is now the U.S. Secretary of Defense, has faced intense criticism for his bombastic rhetoric and perceived lack of strategic leadership in guiding the country through the ongoing conflict with Iran. Hegseth's background as a conservative commentator, his ties to Christian nationalist movements, and his history of controversial statements have raised alarms among military veterans, foreign policy experts, and religious leaders who fear he is transforming the Pentagon into an ideological and religious crusade.

Why it matters

Hegseth's rise to the top of the Pentagon is seen by many as a dangerous development, as he brings a combative, partisan, and theologically-driven approach to a role that traditionally requires nuance, diplomacy, and a commitment to the rule of law. His statements and actions risk further inflaming tensions, alienating allies, and undermining the military's professionalism and reputation.

The details

As Defense Secretary, Hegseth has vowed to "unleash overwhelming and punishing violence" on enemies and has promised to dispense with "stupid rules of engagement" that are meant to restrict attacks on civilian populations. He has adopted a bombastic, macho persona that critics say is more suited to a Fox News pundit than a sober military leader. Hegseth's background includes allegations of financial mismanagement, sexual misconduct, and disparaging remarks about women in the armed forces during his time running veterans' organizations. He has also faced scrutiny over his ties to Christian nationalist movements, including his endorsement of the "sphere sovereignty" doctrine and his invitation to a pastor who has advocated for a theocratic vision of society.

  • Hegseth became Defense Secretary in 2025 after being nominated by President Trump.
  • The current conflict with Iran began in early 2026.

The players

Pete Hegseth

The current U.S. Secretary of Defense, previously a host on Fox News and a conservative commentator with ties to Christian nationalist movements.

Janessa Goldbeck

The chief executive of the Vet Voice Foundation, a nonprofit advocacy organization, and a former Marine Corps combat engineer officer.

Brett Bruen

The president of the public affairs agency Global Situation Room and a former global engagement director in the Obama administration.

Robert P. Jones

The president and founder of the Public Religion Research Institute, a think tank in Washington, D.C.

Doug Pagitt

A pastor and the executive director of the progressive Christian group Vote Common Good.

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What they’re saying

“Pete Hegseth is a very dangerous person. He's a white Christian nationalist and has the arsenal of the United States government at his disposal and a permission slip from President Trump to deploy carnage wherever he wishes against whomever he wishes.”

— Janessa Goldbeck, Chief Executive, Vet Voice Foundation (The Guardian)

“Honestly, it's embarrassing. We know this guy is incompetent. I wouldn't feel safe leaving Pete Hegseth in charge of putting together a DoorDash order.”

— Janessa Goldbeck, Chief Executive, Vet Voice Foundation (The Guardian)

“Hegseth is ill-suited for the kind of reassurance and strategy that Americans and our allies need to hear from the Pentagon right now. They don't need a bumper sticker. They don't need the bravado and the brashness that he brings. They need to know that America's military is in strong, stable hands and what we have seen in his first couple of war press conferences is an inability to move beyond this Fox personality and into the role of leader of our nation's military at a time of war.”

— Brett Bruen, Former Global Engagement Director, Obama Administration (The Guardian)

“This is not one or two comments. It's not a kind of one-off behaviour. This is like a longstanding publicly demonstrated orientation that Hegseth has. It's not just a glorification of violence but a glorification of violence in the name of Christianity and civilisation.”

— Robert P. Jones, President and Founder, Public Religion Research Institute (The Guardian)

“It seems to me that Pete Hegseth has a worldview, which is contorted toward thinking that this administration has a particular divine calling. He believes - because he said it - that God has uniquely ordained Donald Trump and those that he chooses to accomplish very specific purposes in the world.”

— Doug Pagitt, Pastor and Executive Director, Vote Common Good (The Guardian)

What’s next

The Senate is expected to hold additional hearings to further scrutinize Hegseth's record and fitness for the role of Defense Secretary.

The takeaway

Hegseth's appointment to lead the Pentagon has raised serious concerns about the potential for the military to be used for ideological and religious purposes, rather than in service of the nation's strategic interests and the protection of American lives. His bellicose rhetoric and ties to Christian nationalism have alarmed experts who fear he is ill-equipped to guide the country through a complex geopolitical crisis.