US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has come under renewed scrutiny after a video emerged of him praying for 'overwhelming violence' against enemies during a Pentagon church service. The remarks have fuelled concerns about the influence of Christian nationalism on US foreign policy.
Hegseth, a former Fox News host, has a history of controversial statements. In 2019 he claimed on air that he had not washed his hands for a decade, asserting 'germs are not a real thing'. He later said he was joking.
Since taking office, Hegseth has pushed for 'maximum lethality' over 'tepid legality', dismantled a programme to reduce civilian harm, and sacked experts advising on compliance with international law. Critics link these moves to an airstrike that hit a school in Afghanistan, killing several girls.
During the Pentagon service, Hegseth said: 'Let every round find its mark against the enemies of righteousness ... and overwhelming violence of action against those who deserve no mercy.' He is affiliated with the Congregation of Reformed Evangelical Churches, whose founder Doug Wilson promotes Christian nationalism.
Hegseth's spiritual adviser, Brooks Potteiger, recently appeared on a podcast where he appeared to pray for the death of a Democratic candidate. Potteiger later said his words were misinterpreted, claiming he was praying for the candidate's conversion.
Separately, a New York Times report alleged Hegseth has blocked the promotion of two Black women in the Pentagon, raising questions about diversity within the military leadership.
