Story perspectives

Defense Secretary Hegseth Urges Soldiers to Ignore Engagement Rules

12/3/2025

Summary

Story summary

Pete Hegseth, U.S. defense secretary, urges soldiers in Iraq to disregard legal advice on engagement rules, arguing constraints endanger lives.
In his book, he criticizes military lawyers and praises Colonel Michael Steele, who faced reprimands for ordering the killing of unarmed Iraqis.
Hegseth's comments raise concerns about war crimes, with some senators questioning his actions.
Experts say adherence to engagement rules prevents atrocities, countering calls to operate without legal constraints.

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Story summary

Pete Hegseth, U.S. defense secretary, urges soldiers in Iraq to disregard legal advice on engagement rules, arguing constraints endanger lives.
In his book, he criticizes military lawyers and praises Colonel Michael Steele, who faced reprimands for ordering the killing of unarmed Iraqis.
Hegseth's comments raise concerns about war crimes, with some senators questioning his actions.
Experts say adherence to engagement rules prevents atrocities, countering calls to operate without legal constraints.