U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has intensified his criticism of the media, labeling coverage of the Iran war as “unpatriotic” and controversially comparing journalists to the Pharisees, a biblical Jewish group, during a Pentagon press briefing.
Speaking on Thursday, Hegseth accused sections of the American press of producing “relentlessly negative coverage” of the ongoing conflict, despite what he described as the “historic and important success” of U.S. military operations. He questioned the loyalty of some reporters, stating it was “hard to figure out what side some of you are actually on.”
The defense chief, a former Fox News host, went further by invoking religious imagery, likening parts of the media to the Pharisees — figures in the Bible often portrayed as critics of Jesus. Hegseth suggested that certain outlets, which he described as “legacy Trump-hating press,” were blinded by political bias against President Donald Trump and therefore unable to recognize what he called the achievements of American troops.
Hegseth said the comparison was inspired by a recent church sermon, arguing that just as the Pharisees scrutinized acts to find fault, some journalists focus solely on negative aspects of military efforts. He urged reporters to “open your eyes” to what he framed as the courage of U.S. forces and leadership.
The remarks have drawn criticism from media professionals and commentators, who argue that the comments misrepresent the role of journalism. Bill Grueskin of Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism said the comments reflect a misunderstanding of reporters’ duty to pursue truth and provide accurate, transparent accounts, particularly in complex war environments.
Grueskin also noted the challenges journalists face covering the conflict, including restricted access at the Pentagon and limited ability to report from within Iran.
Former Fox News anchor Gretchen Carlson also criticized Hegseth, accusing him of using religion to shame journalists performing their professional duties.
Hegseth’s rhetoric marks a continued pattern of confrontations between the Defense Department and the press since the escalation of the Iran conflict in late February, with his comments highlighting growing tensions over war coverage and political messaging.
