Hegseth Faces Criticism on Gender, Iran Strike Results

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faced criticism for using gendered language after praising only 'our boys' following U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, despite female service members’ involvement. Hegseth dismissed media concerns about his phrasing, emphasizing pride in all service members and expressing a desire for more female bomber pilots, while reiterating his intention to use traditional expressions. The incident reignited debate over his previous opposition to women in combat roles. Hegseth also publicly clashed with Fox News' Jennifer Griffin, challenging her reporting on whether the strikes destroyed Iran's enriched uranium stockpiles. This dispute highlighted ongoing tensions between the Defense Department and the press regarding transparency and recognition. Intelligence assessments now suggest that Iran's nuclear program was not fully destroyed by the strikes, contradicting Trump administration claims.