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Defense Secretary Slams 'Fake News' on Iran War Casualties

3/7/2026

26 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth criticized media emphasis on U.S. casualties in the Iran war, saying it undermines the president.
During a Pentagon briefing, he called the coverage "fake news" and urged a more realistic portrayal.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt supported Hegseth's remarks.
Military affairs reporter Dan Lamothe affirmed the importance of covering war casualties and the sacrifices of servicemembers.

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Story summary

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth criticized media emphasis on U.S. casualties in the Iran war, saying it undermines the president.
During a Pentagon briefing, he called the coverage "fake news" and urged a more realistic portrayal.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt supported Hegseth's remarks.
Military affairs reporter Dan Lamothe affirmed the importance of covering war casualties and the sacrifices of servicemembers.