Pete Hegseth, the current Secretary of the Department of Defense and a veteran of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, has become a polarizing figure in US defense policy. His tenure has been marked by significant shifts in military strategy and controversy over cultural issues, drawing both criticism and support. Hegseth, a vocal critic of the Biden administration's handling of the 2021 withdrawal from Afghanistan, has faced scrutiny for his decisions that many argue undermine global alliances and military effectiveness.
Hegseth's leadership at the Pentagon has coincided with a period of unprecedented undermining of global alliances. His decision to suspend offensive cyber missions countering Russia has raised concerns about the US's strategic positioning in international conflicts. Additionally, Hegseth has frozen critical intelligence and weapons packages as part of a broader repositioning of the US stance on various conflicts. These actions have led to allegations that he is neglecting the "warfighters" he frequently mentions and focusing instead on cultural battles rather than the military's core mission.
Critics have also pointed to Hegseth's decision to close the Pentagon's Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response office, as well as the Civilian Protection Center of Excellence, as evidence of a broader shift away from safeguarding civilians in conflict zones. Moreover, his axing of social sciences and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) research has sparked debate about the role of such initiatives in military strategy. In an early March memo, Hegseth stated that “on global migration patterns, climate change impacts, and social trends” were not within the Department of Defense's purview.
“DoD does not do climate change crap. We do training and warfighting.” – Hegseth
Hegseth's historical attitude towards gender has also come under fire. He has dismissed top female officers, prompting accusations that his views are not making enlistment an attractive option for women. Caroline Zier criticized Hegseth for potentially alienating women in the military.
“Comments that question the qualifications and accomplishments of women in uniform are deeply disrespectful of the sacrifices these service members and their families have made for our country,” – Caroline Zier
“Secretary Hegseth risks alienating and undermining the women who currently serve, while decreasing the likelihood that other women look to join the military at exactly the moment when we need all qualified recruits.” – Caroline Zier
Hegseth has also been linked to Christian nationalism, a connection that has drawn criticism from various quarters. His association with a pastor who controversially stated that slavery brought "affection between the races" further fueled these criticisms. Many argue that Hegseth's focus on cultural issues detracts from addressing the military's fundamental responsibilities.
Internationally, Hegseth's policies have left allies uncertain about future US support. A former US marine expressed concerns about what these shifts mean for Ukraine.
“I think the Ukrainians and all of us working here regardless of nationality, are anxious about what the future of US support looks like,” – a former US marine
“We’re all hoping that the US will do the right thing and provide the Ukrainians the tools they need to end this war and secure their future.” – a former US marine
Despite these criticisms, some defend Hegseth’s focus on core military capabilities. They argue that his approach ensures the US military remains one of the most formidable forces globally.
“The truth is the United States military is the most lethal fighting force in the history of the world, and the Department of Defense never took its eye off warfighting and meritocracy,” – Caroline Zier