Pete Hegseth told US soldiers in Iraq to ignore legal advice on rules of engagement

The GuardianTuesday, December 2, 2025 at 1:00:33 PM
NegativeU.S News
Pete Hegseth told US soldiers in Iraq to ignore legal advice on rules of engagement
  • U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth instructed soldiers in Iraq to disregard legal advice regarding rules of engagement, particularly concerning the use of lethal force against enemy combatants. This directive is detailed in Hegseth's recent book, where he criticizes the constraints imposed by international laws of war and the Geneva Conventions.
  • This incident raises significant concerns about military conduct and accountability, as it suggests a potential disregard for established legal frameworks designed to protect both combatants and civilians during armed conflict.
  • The controversy surrounding Hegseth's comments reflects ongoing debates about military ethics, the interpretation of rules of engagement, and the balance between aggressive military strategies and adherence to international law, particularly in light of recent allegations regarding military strikes in the Caribbean.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

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