politics
Analysis: Pete Hegseth wanted an ‘American Crusade.’ Now he’s leading a war in the Middle East
A version of this story appeared in CNN’s What Matters newsletter. To get it in your inbox, sign up for free here.
TL;DR
- Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth views the US war with Iran through a religious lens, believing God is on America's side.
- Hegseth has previously written and spoken about an 'American Crusade' against Islam, comparing the current conflict to historical religious wars.
- He advocates for a Christian nationalist worldview, believing the US was founded as a Christian nation and should remain so.
- Hegseth has expressed a desire to re-center the military's chaplain corps around Christian principles, moving away from secular language.
- Critics, including the Military Religious Freedom Foundation, warn that Hegseth's rhetoric could alienate Muslims and serve as propaganda for extremist groups.
- Hegseth's views align with Christian Zionism, a belief that supports the state of Israel based on biblical prophecy.
- His perspective is described as part of a broader Christian nationalist movement that emphasizes American exceptionalism and a hierarchical social order.
- Hegseth interprets Jesus's teachings in the context of national defense, suggesting that turning the other cheek is not applicable to a secretary of defense.