US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth called on Americans to pray for the victory of the US military in the war against Iran, openly linking the conflict to the Christian faith.
Speaking from the Pentagon, he asked citizens to pray for the safety of troops and for success in battle. "Every day, on your knees, with your families, in your schools and in your churches... in the name of Jesus Christ," he declared.
His statement comes at a time when the US and Israeli militaries are conducting numerous airstrikes on Iran, a country with a Shiite Muslim majority. Hegseth has repeatedly stressed that US military operations in the Middle East and other regions are more than political or strategic issues, linking them to moral and religious dimensions.
In a recent interview he said he believes the United States will win, citing military superiority and divine support for American troops.
The ideas of this conservative wing of Christianity are often present in the rhetoric of President Donald Trump and some members of his administration.
However, Hegseth's statements have also drawn criticism from some religious figures. Cardinal Robert McElroy has stated that war against Iran is immoral and should end as soon as possible with a ceasefire.
Pope Leo XIV has also called for an end to the conflict, emphasizing that violence cannot bring justice and peace to peoples.
