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Defense Secretary Hegseth Slams Iran Amid Controversial Remarks

3/17/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth criticized Iran's leadership during a press briefing on March 13, 2026, claiming U.S. military actions have significantly weakened Iran's military capabilities.
Hegseth stated that Iranian leaders are "hiding underground like rats" and dismissed media reports about the administration's unpreparedness for the war's impact on shipping in the Strait of Hormuz as "fundamentally unserious."
Critics contend that Hegseth's call for a "patriotic press" threatens independent journalism, which is crucial for comprehending the war's implications.

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Story summary

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth criticized Iran's leadership during a press briefing on March 13, 2026, claiming U.S. military actions have significantly weakened Iran's military capabilities.
Hegseth stated that Iranian leaders are "hiding underground like rats" and dismissed media reports about the administration's unpreparedness for the war's impact on shipping in the Strait of Hormuz as "fundamentally unserious."
Critics contend that Hegseth's call for a "patriotic press" threatens independent journalism, which is crucial for comprehending the war's implications.