Pentagon Chief Hegseth Compares Rescue of Downed Airman to Jesus Christ

Pete Hegseth used a press briefing to cast the rescue in explicitly Christian terms, comparing it to the resurrection of Jesus.

“Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth used a White House press briefing Monday to cast the rescue of a U”

Advocate

The pilot was shot down on Good Friday, remained hidden through Saturday, and recovered on Easter Sunday.

Advocate

President Trump escalated threats against Iran, warning the country could be taken out.

The weapons systems officer evaded capture by hiding in a mountain crevice for 48 hours.

The airman evaded capture for more than a day, scaling rugged ridges while hunted by the enemy.

His first message to rescue teams was God is good.

Christian Post

The comparison drew swift criticism on social media.

Hegseth hosts monthly evangelical worship services in the Pentagon's auditorium.

Trump simultaneously issued escalating threats against Iran, vowing to obliterate power plants and bridges.

Legal experts said targeting civilian infrastructure could constitute a war crime.

The United Nations warned that attacking such infrastructure is banned under international law.

The Strait of Hormuz handles 20% of all seaborne oil trade.

Trump leaned into martial symbolism and devotion.

Critics questioned the wisdom of infusing military operations with religious meaning.

Daily Kos

Congressional Democrats demanded briefings on the constitutional basis for strikes.