Hegseth hosts first Pentagon prayer service since Iran war began

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has hosted a monthly Christian prayer and worship service at the Pentagon, the first since the Iran war began. He quoted warlike Scripture and prayed in Jesus’ name. He read a prayer he said was shared with troops who captured former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. It asked for “overwhelming violence” against enemies. Government leaders often use broad religious language, but critics say Hegseth’s specific evangelical framing feels new for his role. On Monday, Americans United for Separation of Church and State sued to obtain records about the Pentagon Christian services. Hegseth also announced chaplain reforms and cuts to the military’s recognized religious affiliations.