Pete Hegseth is imbuing violence with a religious righteousness | Arwa Mahdawi

Pete Hegseth's advocacy for maximum lethality in military operations has raised concerns about the US Department of War's approach to conflict. The defense secretary has been a strong backer of the war on Iran, emphasizing the need for "maximum lethality, not tepid legality." Under his leadership, a defense department program aimed at reducing civilian harm has been dismantled, and experts who provide guidance on keeping military operations in line with international law have been fired. This shift in approach has been accompanied by a disturbing level of bloodlust, with Hegseth reportedly praying for violence during a Christian worship service at the Pentagon.

Experts note that Hegseth's views on violence are not isolated, but rather part of a broader trend of Christian nationalism influencing US foreign policy. The defense secretary's affiliation with the Congregation of Reformed Evangelical Churches, founded by Doug Wilson, has raised concerns about the seepage of extremist ideologies into government. Furthermore, the invocation of biblical "end times" rhetoric by US military commanders to justify involvement in the Iran war has been reported, highlighting the blurring of lines between faith and foreign policy.

The consequences of this approach are being felt on the ground, with increased violence and civilian harm reported in conflict zones. The dismantling of programs aimed at reducing harm and the firing of experts who provide guidance on international law have been particularly concerning. As the US Department of War continues to grapple with these issues, the international community is watching with growing concern.