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Pete Hegseth’s Christian Rhetoric Faces Scrutiny Amid U.S.-Iran War

Hegseth integrates conservative evangelicalism into Pentagon policies amid the Iran war, prompting 30 Democratic members of Congress to call for an investigation into religious influence risks.

  • As the U.S.-Iran war enters its third week, Pete Hegseth's Christian rhetoric faces scrutiny amid at least 13 US service members' deaths and over $11.3 billion in costs.
  • Within the Pentagon, Hegseth hosts monthly Christian worship services and has moved to reshape chaplaincy by scrapping the 2025 U.S. Army Spiritual Fitness Guide, promoting patriarchal views and questioning Muslim immigration.
  • Viral claims that commanders told troops the war fulfilled biblical prophecies stem from Mikey Weinstein and prompted 30 Democratic members of Congress to ask for an investigation, which the AP could not verify, while Hegseth said, 'But from my perspective, I mean, obviously I'm a man of faith who encourages our troops to lean into their faith, rely on God.'
  • Critics warn Matthew D. Taylor says Hegseth's rhetoric can inflame fears, and Rabbi Laurence Bazer cautioned that privileging one faith risks making service members feel like outsiders, as Bazer said in a statement.
  • Institutionally, Hegseth's crusader tattoos and book American Crusade reflect his Christian worldview, alongside policies like banning transgender troops and removing the Women, Peace, and Security program, signaling lasting change.
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The New Republic broke the news in on Thursday, March 19, 2026.
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